HC Deb 31 March 1993 vol 222 cc274-5W
Mr. Stott

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what studies his Department has made of the price differences between domestic electricity prices in Northern Ireland and in the rest of the United Kingdom; what assessment has been made of the effect the increases in value-added tax on fuel will have on the average home fuel bills; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Atkins

Domestic electricity tariffs in 1992–93 are broadly comparable to those in the rest of the United Kingdom.

It is estimated that the extension of VAT to domestic fuel and power will add about £1.20 in 1994–95 and £2.70 in 1995–96 to households' average weekly fuel bills in Northern Ireland, at 1991 prices. This estimate takes no account of the effects of any energy-saving measures by householders.