Local Lib Dem Backs Clegg's Stand Against Fuel Poverty

Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg MP has used his first Commons appearance as leader to urge Gordon Brown to do more to help hard up families who face higher fuel bills. Speaking at Prime Minister's Question Time, he called on the Prime Minister to press gas and electricity companies to "end the scandal of the poorest families paying the most for their energy needs".

Shepway Lib Dem Campaigner Maureen Speller has welcomed Nick Clegg raising the issue. Maureen said:

"Fuel poverty is one of the most important issues facing local residents today. With energy companies like N-Power announcing that their rates are about to soar, and oil prices at an all-time high, this problem needs to be addressed.

"The Government has not increased the winter fuel payment to pensioners since 2000, but since 2003, gas prices have risen by 61% and electric prices have risen by 39%.

"The cost of an annual energy bill currently stands at £915 compared with £567 in 2003, so the fuel payment now only covers 30% of the average winter fuel bill compared with 43% in 2003.

"With figures from Age Concern showing that 25,000 people die from cold related illnesses during the winter months, its essential that this issue is addressed - now.

"The Government needs to commit to an immediate, significant increase in the winter fuel payment, and to index linking the payment in future so it continues to cover the increased cost of gas and electricity prices. And crucially, it must look at extending the scheme to cover people on income support & job seekers allowance who have children under the age of five and people who receive a premium for disability or long term sickness. This is not just a pensioner problem."