Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of Ofgem's guidance on refraining from involuntary installations of prepayment meters from customers over 85 years old; and if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of preventing companies from involuntarily installing these meters for all pensioners.

The regulation of the energy sector is for independent regulator Ofgem. The code of practice on involuntary installation of prepayment meters was developed by Ofgem after extensive discussions with stakeholders. All suppliers have signed up to the Code and must demonstrate its implementation before reinstating force-fitted prepayment meters. Ofgem will consult on incorporating the Code into the supply licence, to make it fully enforceable by winter.

Ofgem require energy suppliers to support vulnerable customers, including those over pension age, and the provision of additional services through a Priority Services Register. Ofgem monitors compliance with their rules protecting vulnerable consumers.