COST OF ENERGY PURCHASED WITH PRE-PAYMENT METERS

Motion Text

That this House notes that recent substantial rises in energy prices are condemning more people to fuel poverty; fears that if, the Meteorological Office forecasts for a severe winter are correct, many will suffer even more through being unable properly to heat their homes; further notes that pre-payment meters are the most expensive means of buying energy and that those who use them are effectively paying a premium, that those who use such meters are predominately those on lower incomes, that it is much more difficult for those on such meters to switch suppliers to obtain discounts and that in any event many would be unable to benefit from switching; believes that it is unacceptable that the poorest in society should be paying the most for energy; and calls upon the Government to take urgent action to ensure that the cost of energy through pre-payment meters is reduced.