Member

For many low-income households, the £150 WHD is, regrettably, being immediately offset by rising energy bills, driven by many of the Government’s policy choices. We therefore need to recognise that while the scheme is welcome inasmuch as it supports those on a low income, those vulnerable to cold-related illness or those living wholly or mainly in fuel poverty, there is a real problem at the moment with the cost of electricity and the cost of energy. I would be grateful if the Minister could respond to those comments and to the excellent points made by the noble Earl, Lord Russell, and my noble friend Lady McIntosh.