Energy Markets Competition Assessment

Emma Lewell-Buck Excerpts

Thursday 27th March 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck (South Shields) (Lab)]

In December, the Secretary of State said that Ofgem was not fit for purpose. He has also said that we cannot rely on guesswork to fix the energy markets. Why will he not admit that today’s decision to refer the energy market for a full market investigation is a clear admission that the market is broken and Ofgem is not fit for purpose? May I also offer him some polite advice? He does not need to rely on guesswork; he needs to listen to the Labour party.

[Mr Davey]

I am grateful for the hon. Lady’s question, but I have been accused by the Opposition of saying—in the same debate, I believe—that Ofgem is fit for purpose and that Ofgem is not fit for purpose. I believe she was quoting her Front-Bench colleague, the right hon. Member for Don Valley (Caroline Flint). I will let the hon. Lady try again next time.