Energy price hikes will hit poorest

3.36.07pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 27th Jul 2006

Andrew Simpson, Lib Dem Spokesperson for Northampton North, has responded with concern to the planned large increases in electricity and gas prices announced by British Gas, which is owned by Centrica.

"Wholesale prices are now 80% higher than a year ago, and the latest increases will hit the most vulnerable in our society when they're already struggling.

"Despite introducing measures to reduce fuel poverty the government have not kept in step with the rate of increase in energy prices and are failing to deal with the problem.

"I doubt whether anyone who is struggling to keep their home warm this winter will have sympathy for Centrica, who are blaming the increase on a drop in profits from £894m to £569m" Andrew said.

His comments were made after it was revealed by Liberal Democrat Shadow Trade and Industry Secretary, Edward Davey MP that: "This winter's fuel bills will be the most expensive on record."

The chairman of the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group, Peter Lehmann, has called on the government to try to reduce prices for those on low incomes. Commenting on the news, he said: "These prices are unreasonably high and are not a reflection of a market that is working sensibly."

To find out about Lib Dem policies on energy go to: www.libdems.org.uk/commerce