HL Deb 02 November 1994 vol 558 c66WA
Lord Mulley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will review all charges by public utilities which are unrelated to the amount of product or service consumed; and whether they will ensure that such standing charges do not negate the control of prices which falls within the jurisdiction of the regulatory authorities.

Earl Ferrers

Standing charges are a matter for the utility companies and the independent regulators, and are subject to price controls. There is no risk that price controls might be negated. The Government see no case for a review.