Thursday 22 nd May 2008 

Weir Calls For Action on Off Grid Energy Consumers.

Hidden Face of Fuel Poverty Must be Tackled.

Angus MP Mike Weir has pursued his campaign on the plight of rural consumers who rely on home fuel oil and bottled gas by raising the matter with Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks at Business and Enterprise Minister questions today (Thursday)

Mr Weir noted that although the Minister cited action by the “big six” energy companies on social tariffs nothing appeared to be being done to help those who relied on home heating oil or bottled gas. Many people in rural Angus rely on these methods to heat their homes.

Commenting on the matter Mr Weir said that action was now urgent.

“The Minister cites talks with the big six energy suppliers over social tariffs, but the fact of the matter is that those who rely on home fuel oil and bottled gas have no access to social tariffs.”

“The minister noted they were attempting to extend the gas network to more properties, but the reality is that very many rural properties are too far from the existing network and will never be connected. He also mentioned air source heat pumps but, whilst they undoubtedly could make an impact, again the reality is that it is often difficult to fit these into existing  homes and they are still  relatively expensive.”

“Consumers have experienced horrendous increases in oil and bottled gas prices over a short period. This is often the hidden face of fuel poverty and must be tackled now.”  

“During BERR select committee investigation into energy prices I have raised the matter with both Ofgem and Energywatch who both state that there is no regulation of this industry. It is vital that the UK government acts to ensure that this part of the energy industry is included in the remit of the energy sector of the new National Consumer Council”