ENERGY COMPANY DROPS UNFAIR EXTRA CHARGES

Andrew Stunell MP has welcomed First Utility for cutting the amount it charges consumers for not paying their energy bills by direct debit to just £2 a month, following Parliamentary pressure on this unfair extra charge.

Commenting, Andrew Stunell MP said -

"Charging customers extra for paying by cash or cheque is scandalous. Half the households in Stockport don't have a bank account, so don't even have the choice of paying by direct debit. The First Utility announcement cuts their charge by two thirds, and is a very welcome step towards treating people more fairly."

Andrew Stunell MP wants the Government and Ofgem to focus on the charges made by some 17 energy companies to their consumers if they chose to pay their bills other than by direct debit.

Lisa Smart, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Hazel Grove, said -

"It's great news that First Utility has dropped its charge to £2 a month and really does set a good example for other energy companies to follow. However it still remains deeply unfair for people in Stockport, who simply want to pay their energy bills via a different payment method, to have to pay a charge at all. I join Andrew in urging the Government to tackle this problem quickly."

Parliament congratulated First Utility for lowering the amount it charges when customers do not pay their energy bills by direct debit to just £2 per month. It is believed that, as a consequence of Parliamentary pressure put on this topic, the change made by First Utility will help their poorer customers and sets a good example to other energy companies to urge them to follow suit.