ENERGY PRICES AND WINTER DEATHS

Early day motion 1722, tabled 28 February 2006 by Michael Weir (Scottish National Party). Signed by 35 members.

That this House notes with concern the immoral increases in energy, and in particular gas, prices recently announced; believes that such substantial price rises are indefensible; notes Age Concern's estimate that 150,000 pensioners died from cold-related illnesses during the last five winters, and that more than 20,000 pensioners could die this winter; further notes that due to the rising cost of energy, notwithstanding agreements against disconnection and the Government's winter fuel allowance scheme, many pensioners and other vulnerable groups will be fearful of adequately heating their homes; believes that it is completely immoral that in an energy-producing nation such a situation should be allowed to develop; and calls upon the Government to look again at both the adequacy of the existing schemes and the actions of the energy companies.

Signatures by party: Labour 20, DUP 6, Liberal Democrat 3, Scottish National Party 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Plaid Cymru 1, Respect 1.