Business of the House

Wendy Chamberlain Excerpts

Thursday 12th March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Wendy Chamberlain (North East Fife) (LD)]

It was good that the Government hosted a session on heating oil. In rural constituencies, such as North East Fife, almost 15% of people rely on heating oil, so it is really important that the Government are debating this issue. As the Chair of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, my right hon. Friend the Member for Orkney and Shetland (Mr Carmichael), has said, red diesel is also an issue. The rural impacts of the conflict in Iran go beyond heating oil; fertiliser is another challenge, with reports of a 40% increase in the cost. Given that food security is becoming even more vital, will the Leader of the House ensure that we have a statement from the Environment Secretary on the rural impacts of the conflict?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I do not think we have been shy in bringing forward statements on matters that have arisen from the crisis in Iran, and we will continue to do so. The hon. Lady is absolutely right to raise concerns about heating oil and other matters. As she knows, the Energy Minister has asked the Competition and Markets Authority to make sure that consumers are treated fairly, and there is the option of an investigation into unfair practices, if that becomes necessary. The Government are very cognisant of energy prices in general, but also of the price of heating oil and fuel. We will keep that under close watch and, when appropriate, update the House on what we intend to do about it.