The MP has lent his backing to the Scout Association's Stop the Rain Tax campaign, and has written to Hilary Benn, the Secretary of State for DEFRA, urging him to include the necessary legislation in the forthcoming Flood and Water Management Bill expected in the next session of parliament.
As a result of the licence conditions set by the government, charges for surface water drainage are being introduced by water companies, dubbed the "rain tax".
Many churches, scout groups and amateur sports clubs will have to pay hundreds of pounds more in higher bills, in some cases amounting to a third of their yearly revenue.
Such charging by site area falls disproportionately on churches and sports clubs which often have large roofs, a large open area or a sizeable car park.
Many voluntary groups currently have exemptions or discounts for business rates, but this will not extend to water rates.