Bates backs bill to end fuel poverty

12.00.00am GMT Wed 14th Jan 2009

Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has expressed his delight that Liberal Democrat MP David Heath is bringing forward a parliamentary bill aimed at ending fuel poverty.

The Fuel Poverty Bill will bring in two measures:

A major energy efficiency programme to bring existing homes up to the current energy efficiency levels enjoyed by modern homes.

Social tariffs to limit vulnerable households' exposure to high-energy bills.

Liberal Democrat AM Mick said:

"These proposals will be great for the environment whilst also making a real difference to pensioners and others struggling to pay their energy bills.

"It will make a real difference to the estimated five million households faced with the terrible choice between heating and eating this winter.

"The bill would also provide a much-needed boost to the local construction industry struggling in the recession."

The measures in the bill have received the backing of many major charities and campaign groups, including Help the Aged, Friends of the Earth, Consumer Focus and the Association for the Conservation of Energy.

Notes:

The proposals in the bill also form part of the Liberal Democrats' Green Road out of Recession package. Further information on the package can be found at http://www.libdems.org.uk/home/nick-clegg-launches-the-green-road-out-of-the-recession-98449610;show

http://www.libdems.org.uk/home/nick-clegg-launches-the-green-road-out-of-the-recession-98449610;show

As a result of coming second in the private member's bill ballot, David Heath is guaranteed time for his bill to be debated in the House of Commons on a private member's bill Friday. The date for the debate has not yet been set, but it is likely to be in March.