Context
The MP noted constituent Lesley from Tring who missed out on the winter fuel allowance, stating she will spend most of the winter in bed due to energy costs. Standing charges disproportionately affect those on lower incomes.
Question
Lesley from Tring is one of my constituents who just missed out on the winter fuel allowance. She said she will be spending most of the winter in bed because she is struggling with energy costs. While so many are struggling with the cost of energy, standing charges disproportionately affect those on lower incomes such as Lesley. Will the Government meet Ofgem to discuss those disparities and prepare detailed action to review standing charges for a fairer system?
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
I am sorry to hear about the case of Lesley, and I know there are people across the country who have this frustration with standing charges. I reassure the House that we have a commitment to reducing them. We are working with Ofgem on a set of options. Our challenge is to ensure that standing charges do not penalise some households and that they are as fair as possible. That is what we are committed to doing, and that is what we are working every day to deliver.
Not addressed: The minister did not confirm a meeting with Ofgem or provide specific details on planned actions for reviewing standing charges.
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