This new system would be unjust

The idea is to get water companies to charge churches and other organisations which run premises such as Scout huts and community halls a wastewater fee based on site surface area rather than the current billing system, which is based on rateable value.

This has been dubbed the "rain tax" because of the natural drainage from surfaces including hall roofs and car parks which go back into the water system.

The scheme has been trialled in the north-west of England, and has already seen community groups struggling to meet the hike in water bills.

Scout groups, which run on limited incomes, say these new charges would be impossible to meet.

If the "rain tax" is passed in Parliament, Scouting leaders fear some Scout huts might have to close down.

This would be tragic considering the Scouts do such fantastic work in encouraging young people to lead good, active lives while providing the chance for them to thrive together in activities such as camping, sports and first aid.

But it's not just the Scouts who are under threat from the "rain tax" '“ the same charges could be applied to places of worship, Brownie and Guide groups, community halls and even small businesses.

Sidley Community Association has had to close its long-running Young People's Centre thanks to financial pressures, so what extra strain would these charges place on similar organisations which are also struggling?

The Scouts feel strongly about the issue. The lobby at the Houses of Parliament is the first time in the group's 100-year history Scouts have gone to war with the powers-that-be at such a high level.

Let's hope the lobby will help block Ofwat's move for these blanket charges in the House of Commons, and allow water companies to give discounted charges to community groups.

If not, and if what the Scouts fear actually comes to pass, then founder Lord Baden-Powell will be turning in his grave.