§ David BurnsideTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will meet with the Centrica Company to discuss the effects that the proposed rise in retail gas prices will have on. Northern Ireland's consumers; and if he will make a statement. [165165]
§ Mr. GardinerFollowing my meeting with Phoenix Natural Gas on 8 April 2004, the company agreed to suspend its proposed gas price increase. I also met with Centrica on 19 April 2004 when I emphasised the importance of the natural gas industry to Northern Ireland and asked that all parties work together to resolve the various issues and thus secure the long-term future of the industry.