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‘Consumer champion’ calls for lower energy bills

20/10/2008

A new ‘independent champion for consumers’ is calling for energy providers to cut the cost of domestic energy now that oil prices are falling.

Pointing out the link between inflation levels and energy prices, Ed Mayo, Chief Executive of Consumer Focus, said “We have seen this week that the biggest single driver of inflation is rising energy prices. We want immediate action from energy companies to reduce their prices in line with falling oil prices. This will be good not just for consumers, but for the whole economy.

“Oil prices have been falling since July,” Mr Mayo continued, “yet consumers have seen unprecedented rises in their gas and electricity costs. Consumers must now be wondering why they are left waiting.”

“For people in debt,” said a spokesperson for Debt Advisers Direct, “many of whom are on prepayment meters and paying above-average rates, today’s utility bills can be a real challenge.

“We have yet to see how energy suppliers will respond to the various calls for lower bills – but we would remind people with debt problems that they should talk to a professional debt adviser as soon as possible.

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Debt Advisers Direct offer free debt advice and a range of debt solutions, including debt management plans, debt consolidation and IVAs (Individual Voluntary Arrangements).

Energy firms `not refunding overpayments automatically` 01/07/2009 - A new report by consumer group Which? has claimed that Average household £7 a week richer but debt levels remain high 01/07/2009 - During May, a typical household had £164 a week left Consumers `cutting back on credit card debt` 01/07/2009 - Many UK consumers are cutting back on the amount of Mortgage debt often greater than house value 01/07/2009 - According to the latest findings from global rating agency Fitch,