Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Margot James and Caroline Flint

Tuesday 13th December 2016 Commons Chamber

[Margot James]

I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend. It is not right that customers are penalised for their loyalty. We want energy companies to treat all their customers fairly, and not just customers who switch between suppliers. That is why we have challenged them to come forward with proposals to ensure that all their customers get a fair deal.

[Caroline Flint (Don Valley) (Lab)]

I have been saying for about five years now that companies have been overcharging their customers who are on the standard variable tariff. That has been confirmed by the Competition and Markets Authority, Ofgem and the Government. The only way we will shift how those companies operate is by extending to those people on the standard variable tariff the protection we offer those on prepayment meters. Will the Minister meet me to discuss what more we can do to ensure that we give the big six energy companies a kick up the backside?

[Margot James]

I am happy to meet the right hon. Lady, who has extensive experience in this area. We are certainly considering the CMA remedies.