Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Scotland Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Mike Weir Excerpts
Wednesday 18th April 2012

(12 years, 8 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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David Mundell Portrait David Mundell
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I represent a large rural constituency in the Scottish borders, so I certainly share my hon. Friend’s concerns, although I understand that in his constituency there are some innovative initiatives whereby communities are coming together to purchase heating oil and are therefore able to negotiate better prices with suppliers.

Mike Weir Portrait Mr Mike Weir (Angus) (SNP)
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As well as pressing the Office of Fair Trading, will the Minister press his own Cabinet colleagues to look at providing practical help, for example by bringing forward the pensioners’ winter fuel allowance for off-grid consumers to allow them to fill up their tanks before winter hits, when prices tend to be lower?

David Mundell Portrait David Mundell
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The off-grid issue is of concern in rural Scotland, as elsewhere, and I would be happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss his concerns.