HC Deb 16 February 1987 vol 110 c468W
28. Mr. Watts

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what information he has had as to what proportion of gas and electricity consumers make use of budget payments schemes.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

The electricity and gas industries each promote a range of budget schemes designed to even out hills and thus to help consumers plan payments and to avoid building up debts. I am advised that about 14 per cent. of domestic electricity consumers and about 22 per cent. of domestic gas consumers take advantage of such schemes.