MP BACKS “PLUG THE DEBT” CAMPAIGN AS HOMES IN ENERGY DEBT GO UP BY A FIFTH
January 9, 2012 6:39 PM
Households' energy debts have increased by a fifth across the UK in the last year, with six in ten people in Greater Manchester and the North West
saying they are unsure whether they can afford to pay their energy bills this winter, according to a new survey. Now, Hazel Grove MP Andrew Stunell is calling on energy companies to do more to help their customers with soaring energy prices.
Mr Stunell is backing the "Plug the Debt" campaign, run by the survey's authors Consumer Focus, alongside Citizens Advice, which gives practical advice to people who are falling behind with their energy bills.
"Many people face a struggle to afford to keep their home warm this winter, so this campaign comes at the right time," Mr Stunell said.
Lib Dem Energy Secretary Chris Huhne has already forced the major energy companies to write to their customers to explain how they can switch to a cheaper tariff. As a result over half a million households in the North West will benefit from a letter from the energy companies explaining how they can switch to a cheaper tariff.
Mr Stunell continued:
"But the energy companies must do much more to keep their prices down and ensure that consumers don't bear the brunt of extra price rises this winter. I want anyone having problems paying their bills to contact their energy company or local Citizens Advice Bureau. You can visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk to find your local branch."
ENDS
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