Written question asked by Keith Hampson (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 11 February 1997. It was answered by Richard Page (Conservative) on Tuesday, 11 February 1997 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To what extent the prices for electricity and gas have fallen for industrial users since the privatisation of these industries; and how average prices compare with those in other EU countries. - Includes figures.

Answer: Dr. Hampson: To ask the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the prices for electricity and gas have fallen for industrial users since the privatisation of these industries; and how average prices compare with those in other EU countries. [14595] Mr. Page: Between privatisation in quarter four 1986 and quarter three 1996 average UK industrial gas prices have fallen by 59 per cent. in real terms, whilst between privatisation in quarter two 1990 and quarter three 1996 average UK industrial electricity prices have fallen by 15 per cent. in real terms. In 1995, the latest year for which comprehensive data are available, UK industrial gas were the lowest in the european Union, an improvement from sixth lowest in 1990. Electricity prices were in the mid range of prices-- 7th lowest--an improvement on tenth lowest in 1990.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 14595; 290 c126W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Decreases Energy Electricity Privatisation Natural gas Prices Utilities
Contains statistics: Yes