Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew Stephenson Excerpts

Thursday 24th March 2011 Commons Chamber

[Karl MᶜCartney (Lincoln) (Con)]

18. What recent representations he has received on the effect on consumers of high oil prices.

[Andrew Stephenson (Pendle) (Con)]

19. What recent representations he has received on the effect on consumers of high oil prices.

[Laura Sandys (South Thanet) (Con)]

20. What recent representations he has received on the effect on consumers of high oil prices.

--- Later in debate ---

[Charles Hendry]

I am delighted to join my hon. Friend in his pleasure at yesterday’s announcement, and the relief that it will bring his constituents and many others throughout the country. Scrapping the escalator imposed by the previous Administration was a significant change of policy, and all our constituents will be grateful for the steps the Chancellor has taken.

[Andrew Stephenson]

Given the significant number of households in Pendle and the 3.6 million in the United Kingdom as a whole that are off the gas grid, how soon does my hon. Friend expect the OFT’s investigation to be concluded?

[Charles Hendry]

That is another important point. I have asked the OFT to complete the work quickly. I want to have its report by the autumn, so that we can learn any necessary lessons and make any necessary changes before next winter in order to protect customers who are off the grid.