Murad Qureshi AM questioned EDF Energy, who will be introducing the highest price rise, directly about the difference between energy prices in France, where customers have seen a two per cent increase, with the 11 per cent rise customers have faced in the UK. 

A fifth of London households are estimated to be in fuel poverty with 10 per cent of their income going towards fuel costs. There are 126,400 households in severe fuel poverty, where fuel costs more than 20 per cent of their basic income. 

London Assembly Labour Group’s Environment spokesman Murad Qureshi said:

"These enormous price rises are pushing thousands of Londoners in to fuel poverty and energy companies should be ashamed of themselves. They are putting profit over the wellbeing of their customers. 

"Every one per cent increase in energy prices sends 40,000 customers in to fuel poverty across the whole of the UK. It is disgraceful that energy companies are holding customers over a barrel like this by putting up prices on mass. 

"On average 3,710 Londoners are dying every year as a result of living in a cold home. People have to make the choice between putting food on the table and heating their home. With rents, fares and bills all going up many Londoners are struggling to keep up. I urge the Government to act quickly to help those people who can’t afford to heat their homes this winter."

　

Ends

Notes

Murad Qureshi is the London Assembly Labour Group’s Environment spokesman.

Watch the Health and Environment Committee here: 

http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/webcast/healthenvcom081112.asx