Glasgow MP challenges power companies over cut-off policy

Published on 02/10/2012 15:58

WITH ENERGY costs soaring, a Glasgow MP has challenged the Big Six energy firms to explain how they plan to protect vulnerable people over the winter.

John Robertson has written to the heads of E.ON, British Gas, Npower, SSE, Scottish Power and EDF asking them under what circumstances they will cut off the power of people who 
cannot pay their bills.

He has also asked each of the companies to define how they identify customers as “vulnerable” and what steps they take to protect them.

Mr Robertson, who is also a member of the energy and climate change select committee, seeks to place more responsibility on suppliers to ensure poorer customers are not disconnected.

The Glasgow North West MP said: “These energy barons line their pockets with the profits they make off ordinary people. It is disgraceful how they take advantage of their customers anyway. But if the way they manage vulnerable customers is not up to scratch, I will ensure new guidelines are put in place.”

Worrying about paying household bills is the number one money concern for people in the UK, according to research carried out earlier this year.

The average energy bill has risen by 140 per cent since 2004 from £522 to £1,252.

A third of consumers say household energy is unaffordable and plan to turn their heating down in the winter to save money. However, thanks to a recent change in the law, people who are in debt to their energy companies will still be able to switch suppliers.