§ Mr. Sheermanasked the Secretary of State for Energy what has been the percentage increase in standing charges for gas and electricity since May 1979.
§ Mr. John MooreThe average quarterly standing charges which apply to the domestic credit tariffs in England and Wales for gas and electricity supplies have increased by 334 per cent. and 97 per cent. respectively since May 1979.
The rise in gas standing charges is partially explained by the replacement of the previous high tariff for the first 52 therms each quarter by an increase in standing charges. If the effect of the changes in tariff structure is eliminated, the net increase in standing charges for gas consumers using more than 52 therms per quarter has been 55 per cent. since May 1979.