§ Mr. BreedTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what measures she will take to ensure that fuel poverty does not increase as a result of the introduction of competition into the gas and electricity supply industries; and if she will make a statement. [50927]
§ Mr. BattleThe Green Paper "A Fair Deal for Consumers: Modernising the Framework for Utility Regulation" highlighted a particular concern that disadvantaged consumers may be benefiting least from emerging competition in gas and electricity supply. Competition has, and will, continue to benefit all consumers in these markets by driving prices down and services standards and choice up. But it is important that these benefits should be enjoyed fairly by all. The gas and electricity regulators and energy companies, in consultation with consumer representative bodies, were therefore asked to draw up an action plan to ensure that disadvantaged consumers benefit from improved efficiency, more choice, and greater fairness. That action plan has now been received and is being considered carefully, along with the many representations submitted on these issues. The President of the Board of Trade will be announcing the Government's response as soon as possible.