Prepayment Meters Vulnerable Households 2023-11-28
2023-11-28
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Concern about the impact of involuntary installation of prepayment meters on vulnerable households.
If she will make an assessment of the impact of the mandatory code of practice for the involuntary installation of prepayment meters on vulnerable households.
The Secretary of State and I met CEOs of energy suppliers recently. We emphasised that Ofgem's new rules must be implemented and lead to improved protections for vulnerable consumers. We are working closely with Ofgem and the industry to ensure that that is the case.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of impact on vulnerable households not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Concern about the lifting of ban potentially affecting families with children over two years old and pensioners under 75.
The Minister will be aware that the ban on the involuntary installation of prepayment meters will be lifted soon. That will mean families with children over two years old and pensioners under 75 who are still vulnerable will potentially face the higher cost of prepayment meters. There is the possibility, of course, that when they run out of tokens they will be cut off. Is that right?
First of all, we have been mindful of ensuring that there is no higher cost to prepayment meters. We are mindful of the fact that prepayment meters have a place in certain households, because we are very sure that we must not increase debt.
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Assessment & feedback
Confirmation of potential higher costs and disconnection not provided.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Concern about the lack of demonstration of compliance with the code of practice and Scottish Power's court actions.
I thank the Minister for that answer, but what is it about the code of practice that means two-year-olds are vulnerable but three-year-olds are not? What is the difference between those households? Why has Scottish Power been able to go to court to obtain warrants to install prepayment meters forcibly before it has been able to demonstrate any compliance with the code? Is that not the wrong way around?
Just for assurance, we have held conversations with Ofgem and suppliers to make sure no forced instalments have taken place yet. We are scrutinising the system to ensure that all vulnerable people are able to access the energy they need.
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Assessment & feedback
Explanation of age criteria and legal actions not provided.
Response accuracy