Chancellor Must Take Firm Action on Energy Prices

 

Mike Weir MP, the SNP Westminster Energy spokesperson, has today (Monday) called upon the Chancellor to take “firm action” on energy prices in this week’s Budget.

 

Commenting on reports that the Chancellor was considering action on the charges for those on pre-payment meters, Mr Weir, who is a long-time campaigner on the issue and has previously attempted to introduce changes in the 2004 Energy Act, said that such action would be welcome, but that energy companies had to go further and take real action on social tariffs.

 

Mr Weir said:

 

“The Chancellor must take firm action on pre payment meters and end the scandal that those who use them pay the most for their energy. This must be the only example of where you are actually charged more for paying cash in advance. 

 

“Consumers using this method of payment can end up paying almost one third more than those on the cheapest tariffs.

 

“Energy companies must be made to go further and make real efforts on social tariffs. So far the UK government has declined to legislate in this area but there are massive differences in the social tariffs available, with some companies charging less for direct debit tariffs than social tariffs, whilst others spend far less on such tariffs than on sponsorship deals which show where their real priorities lie.

 

“Spiralling energy prices are pushing more and more families into fuel poverty and strong action is needed now.”