Written question asked by Mike Weir (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 23 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 March 2005. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 March 2005 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what steps her Department is taking to limit the impact of the recent gas price rises on customers with low incomes. - (Holding answer 28 February 2005).

Answer: Mr. Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps her Department is taking to limit the impact of the recent gas price rises on customers with low incomes. [218820] Mr. Mike O'Brien :[holding answer 28 February 2005]: I am working with the industry, Ofgem, Energywatch and voluntary sector to ensure that customers on low incomes are aware of, and take advantage of, the significant reductions that can be made in energy bills by transferring supplier, using the cheapest and simplest payment methods, installing energy efficiency measures and accessing Government and industry social and fuel poverty programmes.

Secondary information