Pretoria — Cabinet has approved a Strategic Framework for Water Services to deal with matters such as service coverage and quality, role of various government spheres and the need for compassionate local government.

Government spokesperson Joel Netshitenzhe said the framework would deal with a wide range of issues based on the experience in the provision water services since 1994.

Mr Netshitenzhe was briefing the media at the Union Buildings in Pretoria today, following Cabinet meeting in Cape Town yesterday.

'[This include] what are the new standards that we want to put forward with regards to coverage and quality, the role of various government spheres,' he said.

Mr Netshitenzhe said some of the functions had been transferred to municipalities.

'And the issue of cut-offs - how to ensure that municipalities do not willingly go out cutting off water and that they are able to provide free basic services, the concept of compassionate local government,' he added.