Friday 19th April 2008

THE HIDDEN FACE OF FUEL POVERTY IN ANGUS

Angus MP, Mike Weir, is calling on the government on the fuel poverty issue as heating oil prices go beyond 50p per litre.

In more rural areas such as Angus there is a much greater reliance on oil central heating and while the focus has been on electricity and gas price increases the situation for those relying on oil is even worse.

Just four years ago the oil price was around 17-18p per litre but the price has tripled to more than 50p with a recent quote being as high as 53.9p per litre.

This level of increase is many times greater than gas and electricity where the debate has been focussed.

Mr Weir has regularly raised this concerning issue and is pressing the UK Government on action to relieve the pressure on low income families who are in the impossible position of choosing between food, fuel and clothing.

Commenting on the current situation the Mr Weir said:

" The situation for people who rely on oil central heating is totally unsustainable. We are in a situation now where heating bills for many can be well in excess of £2,000 per year for a relatively modest sized property.

" When pensioners and other low income households are having to spend so much money on keeping a basic level of heat in their homes they are simply not able to eat properly, buy essential items such as clothes and for many a social life is non-existant with the financial pressures they find themselves under.

" The situation for heating oil customers is often overlooked with the increases in gas and electricity prices taking centre stage but this issue cannot be allowed to go unresolved.  This is the hidden face of fuel poverty.

" The government has to take action to address this energy crisis and give people back the basic quality of life that they should be entitled to. 

"It is clear the seriousness of the situation to the Labour Government and they must take urgent action. These demands are being echoed by campaign groups and individuals affected by this massive increase in fuel costs."