Written question asked by Mike Weir (Scottish National Party) on Monday, 15 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 November 2004. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Thursday, 18 November 2004 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 she will take to protect those on lower incomes from the effects of recent increases in gas and electricity prices; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she will take to protect those on lower incomes from the effects of recent increases in gas and electricity prices; and if she will make a statement. [199212] Mr. Mike O'Brien: I am working with the industry, Ofgem, Energywatch and the caring and voluntary organisations to ensure that customers on lower income are aware, and take advantage, of the significant reductions that can be made to energy bills by transferring supplier, using the cheapest and simplest payment methods, installing energy efficiency measures and accessing social programmes, such as Warm Front.

Secondary information