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Energy Bill

Has it occurred to the Government that there will be a different view from consumers as the high cost of energy continues? Companies may well find that consumers want to buy these meters because they will save money and will find it enormously helpful. The noble Lord, Lord Campbell-Savours, is absolutely right: this will be a big issue and the Government are not up to speed on it at all. We are getting a very laid-back reply. There may be an argument against 10 years; I am not in a position to know that. However, the companies will be alert to this and want to do it as quickly as possible. They are also less likely to have bad debts with smart meters; they will get their money more easily, which would be another imperative.