Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on the cost of energy bills for manufacturers in Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

The Government recognises that high electricity prices are a significant pressure on industry and a barrier to investment and growth. We are taking action to support manufacturers, including through the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, which will benefit over 10,000 businesses and reduce electricity costs by up to £40/MWh. As confirmed at Budget last month, the Northern Ireland Executive will receive funding to deliver a comparable scheme. We are also continuing to develop policies to bring down electricity costs relative to gas for the non-domestic sector. The Government continues to engage with relevant partners, including the Northern Ireland Executive, on matters affecting businesses across the United Kingdom