Octavia Water Pump

[Pugmitch]

I'm enquiring as to whether anyone is aware of a shortage of water pumps for later model Octavias. My son has a 14 Reg 2.0 litre diesel Octavia that has developed an overheating problem. Vag Com diagnoses a Water Pump issue that requires its replacement. Local Skoda dealer is happy to replace F.O.C as the vehicle is just out of warranty but has no water pump in stock. On back order but unlikely to arrive before the end of July. He lives in Bristol and apparently there are none in the South West!
I've tried locally (West Mids) and the same here! My suspicious mind suggests VAG have an issue here as this should be a stock item (often replaced alongside cam belt) so why the shortage?
Anyone in the know care to share what's going on?