The Week Unwrapped - with Olly Mann 405. New York water, mobile mergers and marriage
Nov 8, 2024
Guests include Leif Arbuthnot, assistant editor at The Week; Gary Cafell, deputy editor at MoneySavingExpert; and Vincent Moss, former political editor of The Sunday Mirror. They dive into New York's surprising water shortage and its implications, while also discussing the recent £15 billion Vodafone and Free merger's effect on mobile services. The conversation humorously connects marriage and mental health, revealing how partnerships can impact depression rates and exploring the shifting perceptions of weddings today.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Big-City Droughts Can Come Suddenly
- New York faced its driest October in 150 years, stressing a billion-litre-a-day city supply.
- Mayor Eric Adams urged household conservation amid reservoir and tunnel upgrades taking infrastructure offline.
Prepare For Higher Water Bills
- UK regulator Ofwat plans an £88bn programme to fix leaks, pollution and build reservoirs by 2030.
- Expect average household water bills to rise about 21% over five years unless companies cover more costs.
Check If A Water Meter Saves You Money
- Consider a water meter if your household uses less than the assumed consumption for your property.
- Switching to a meter can cut bills for small households paying an assessed higher flat rate.