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Radio Teleswitch Service Switch-off: Scotland
08 April 2025
Lead MP
Alistair Carmichael
Orkney and Shetland
LD
Responding Minister
Miatta Fahnbulleh
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At a Glance
Alistair Carmichael raised concerns about radio teleswitch service switch-off: scotland in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP asks for clarity on how the Government plans to drive faster meter replacement and whether all energy suppliers will participate in the 'spring sprint'. He also requests information about Ofgem’s consultation results on new rules to protect customers from being worse off under their replacement tariffs.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The radio teleswitch service switch-off is scheduled for 30 June, affecting rural communities, particularly those off the gas grid. Despite extensions made previously, a hard deadline remains due to the obsolescence of the system. Hundreds of thousands of RTS meters remain across the UK, with many in Scotland's rural areas.
Government Response
Miatta Fahnbulleh
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero
Government Response
Acknowledges the importance of the RTS switchover deadline, stating that urgent action is needed. Reports progress made so far on RTS replacements but emphasises the need for more effort, particularly in Scotland and remote rural areas. Highlights a series of spring sprints planned by suppliers to address regional hotspots with high numbers of RTS meters. Emphasises OVO's lead role alongside other supplier contributions. We are working with Members, local government, charities and local partners to spread awareness about the RTS meters transition. Since January, Ofgem's national consumer engagement campaign has been encouraging consumers with an RTS meter to contact their supplier to book an appointment. Technological solutions exist for replacing RTS meters in every household, and suppliers are expected to replace them where appropriate. In areas with lower network connectivity, pre-configured smart meters can be installed which operate similarly to analogue meters and record energy usage accurately. Ofgem is consulting on proposals to ensure consumers are not worse off after switching; the final proposal will address concerns about consumer detriment. The government understands the urgency of the situation and aims to deliver the transition without putting any consumer in a detrimental position.
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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.