A LABOUR MSP has criticised the government for allowing water charges to rise by 8.8 per cent.

Labour's West Scotland Katy Clark points out that the hike comes on top of the increase in rail and ferry fares in recent years.

It is the third year in a row that Scottish Water has increased charges to households, which they say is because of a need to invest in the system.

Ms Clark said: “It is unbelievable that the Scottish Government has nodded through such an eye-watering rise.

“Water bills already increased by five per cent last year and 4.2 per cent the year before, and this comes on top of increases to rail and ferry fares at a time when so many households are struggling with the cost of living."

“Rather than explore other options, the Scottish Government continues to place the burden on working people. They should reverse this hike immediately.”