Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Margot James and Justin Tomlinson

Tuesday 13th December 2016 Commons Chamber

[Justin Tomlinson (North Swindon) (Con)]

10. What steps he is taking to help consumers reduce their energy bills.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (Margot James)]

The retail energy market works well for those who are able and have the time to switch, with customers able to make savings of up to £300 by moving on to the cheapest tariffs. However, we want a market that works for all consumers, not just those who switch supplier. That is why we have been clear that we want energy companies to come forward with proposals on how they are going to treat their loyal customers fairly.

[Justin Tomlinson]

The Competition and Markets Authority has found that two thirds of households are on expensive standard variable tariffs. Does the Minister agree that suppliers should do more to ensure that their loyal customers are on better-value tariffs?

[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.