WEIR: SCOTTISH INTERESTS AT RISK OVER AMALGAMATION PROPOSALS

Mike Weir MP, the SNP spokesperson for Energy has expressed concerns over proposals announced by Consumer Minister Ian McCartney that the national Consumer Council, Energywatch and Postwatch are to be amalgamated into a single body called “Consumer Voice”.

Speaking, Mr Weir said:

“Scottish consumers face serious concerns over issues such as escalating energy prices and there needs to be strong Scottish representation within these bodies that address these concerns effectively.

“Let us not forget that a recent rise in energy prices occurred at a time when wholesale prices were falling which will diminish consumer confidence further still.

“Postwatch published a report recently that promoted a strong defence of the rural post office network in Scotland.  Such work is vital to Scotland’s consumers.  It is highly unlikely that such projects will be undertaken by a UK wide body.

“With the government’s continuing obsession with centralisation, there is a real danger that Scottish interests get lost in this organisation.”