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Energy Suppliers and Consumer Rights
25 April 2023
Lead MP
Wendy Chamberlain
North East Fife
Lib Dem
Responding Minister
Amanda Solloway
Tags
Energy
Word Count: 3592
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
Wendy Chamberlain raised concerns about energy suppliers and consumer rights in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The hon. Member asks the Government to consult on a new consumer rights charter for energy bills and ensure good companies can be accredited under this system. She urges the Minister to take proactive steps to prevent overcharging and poor service from happening to other families and individuals.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The hon. Member is concerned about energy consumers facing overcharging, billing confusion, poor customer service, and issues with smart meters. She mentioned that 25% of her correspondence involves overcharging cases, indicating widespread problems across the UK. Citizens Advice reported a 230% increase in energy complaints during winter. The hon. Member highlighted specific examples of constituents receiving incorrect bills, being charged for unused energy, and facing difficulties due to smart meter malfunctions. She pointed out that vulnerable customers are disproportionately affected by these issues.
He raised concerns about the energy rebate given to park home residents during winter, suggesting that they receive direct rebates from energy companies and are held accountable by those companies and park home owners.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
He commended the hon. Lady for bringing forward this debate and suggested that more gas suppliers in Northern Ireland could increase competition, leading to lower prices.
John Howell
Con
Henley
The hon. Gentleman intervened on issues related to direct debits and the need for redress when energy companies overcharge without notice, agreeing that contacting an MP has sometimes become the only route for constituents seeking resolution.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
She congratulated the hon. Friend on securing the debate and highlighted a constituent's experience with OVO Energy, where a pensioner fell into £140 debt after being threatened by bailiffs and is now £2,500 in debt, calling for action against such callous behaviour.
Government Response
Amanda Solloway
Government Response
It is a pleasure to be here under the chairmanship of Mr Hollobone. The Minister for energy consumers and affordability, Amanda Solloway, congratulated Wendy Chamberlain on securing this debate about consumer rights in the energy market. She highlighted her commitment to bringing down energy bills and protecting consumers, especially the vulnerable. Ofgem enforces rules ensuring suppliers treat customers fairly and automatically compensate them when their switches are delayed or if they miss appointments. The Minister mentioned that suppliers must offer £30 compensation for each breach of guaranteed standards and an additional £30 if payment is not made within 10 days. Complaints data from suppliers is submitted monthly and quarterly to Ofgem, and consumers can approach the energy ombudsman if dissatisfied with outcomes. The Minister addressed the issue of prepayment meters by stating that fitting them forcibly must be a last resort after exhausting all other options. She also mentioned that resources such as Citizens Advice's big energy saving network help people understand their energy use and entitlements. Solloway concluded by saying she looks forward to meeting Chamberlain to discuss these matters further.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.