HC Deb 16 November 1998 vol 319 cc423-4W
Caroline Flint

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to require providers of gas and electricity services to advertise their prices in a standard format. [59303]

Mr. Battle

This is a matter for Director General of Gas Supply and the Director General of Electricity Supply. However, I understand that OFGAS are consulting with suppliers and others to see whether it is possible to reach agreement on a simple means of presenting price information in a way which will enable customers straightforwardly to compare different companies' offers. I understand too that OFFER are considering a similar approach.

In addition, as I announced on 23 September, at my request the Association of Energy Suppliers, whose membership includes the majority of domestic gas and electricity suppliers, have recently clarified their code of practice on doorstep selling to ensure that all their sales representatives provide, on request, clear written information on prices.