ANGER AT OFGEM’S DECISION ON ENERGY PRICING

 

Mike Weir MP, the SNP Westminster Spokesperson on Energy, has today (Monday) reacted angrily to the announcement by Ofgem that it has no concerns about anti-competitive behaviour by energy companies in the UK, despite rocketing prices.

 

Mr Weir said:

 

“It is utterly incredible that the regulator apparently thinks it is quite all right for one energy supplier to raise prices and the others to follow at a respectful distance.

 

“It is becoming increasingly clear that there is, at least, a strong case for the market to be investigated by the Competition Commission.

 

“Over and above suspicions on price rises other issues need to be considered too. For instance, because of the use of prepayment meters and the need to have a bank account for direct debit “deals” many consumers already do not effectively have any choice. This is getting worse by the increasing use by companies of regional tariffs.

 

“If Ofgem is not prepared to take action it is high time that the remit and future of this organisation was looked at”.