Local MP Stephen Metcalfe has welcomed the news that today’s
Energy Bill will save families in South Basildon and East Thurrock up to £158
on their utility bills by helping people to switch to the cheapest tariff.
The most vulnerable households will see the greatest
benefit. This is on top of the £64 average saving that householders in the
local area have already seen so far.
By
contrast, Labour’s planned scheme for utilities would
mean an immediate rise in bills by an average of £61. This
is likely to increase with Ed Miliband’s plans to reorganise the utilities
market by pooling energy for auction.
Whilst these plans were abandoned by Tony Blair because they
drove up energy bills, the current Labour leader wants the scheme reinstated.
This is in addition to his planned £61 increase as well as his unfunded
commitment to rebrand the Ofgem regulator.
Mr
Metcalfe commented: “The cost of living is the number one issue in South
Basildon and East Thurrock and I am therefore extremely pleased that the Conservative
Government is delivering on their promise to help families with the rising cost
of living.”
“The
choice today is saving up to £158 with the Conservatives, or paying £61 more
under Labour.”
Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change,
Greg Barker MP, added: “Today’s Energy Bill will put cash back in your
pocket. Our plans will enable hardworking families in South Basildon and East
Thurrock to save up to £158 by switching to the cheapest energy tariff.”
“Already, as a result of our policies, people are paying 5
per cent less on their gas and electricity bills than they would otherwise be.”
