HC Deb 14 June 1976 vol 913 cc4-5W
15. Mr. Molloy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the progress of his discussions with local authorities and the electricity and gas undertakings regarding plans for protecting pensioner consumers during the coming winter.

Mr. Oakes

I would refer my hon. Friend to my right hon. Friend's reply to my hon. Friends the Members for Newcastle-upon-Tyne, East (Mr. Thomas) and West Lothian (Mr. Dalyell) on 10th June.—[Vol. 912, c.727–8.]

21. Mr. Loyden

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the effectiveness of the measures he introduced to stop the disconnection of gas and electricity to retirement pensioners; and if he will make a statement.

22. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the measures he has taken to prevent the disconnection of gas and electricity to consumers so far; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Oakes

The measures announced on 16th February were widely publicised and resulted in old-age pensioners and the welfare agencies concerned making their status known to the gas and electricity industries, which also made their own inquiries. The industries, in liaison with the social services, made suitable payment arrangements which lightened the burden of the quarterly bills and removed any question of disconnection. I am sure that the industries will continue to deal on these lines with old-age pensioners or indeed other consumers in payment difficulties.