Thurso urges heating oil and LPG users to have their say

8th August 2009

Local MP, John Thurso, is calling on constituents who use heating oils and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to have their say on the problems affecting them in an investigation by Consumer Focus.

Consumer Focus, the independent champion for consumers, launched the investigation into this often ignored market following a raft of consumer complaints. It will look at the problems faced by those who use heating oils or LPG and what can be done to ensure the market better meets the needs of customers. More than a third of households in Scotland are not connected to the mains gas supply.

John Thurso said: "I am pleased to see that Consumer Focus is investigating the problems faced by people using heating oils or LPG to heat their homes. Many households in the Far North are dependent on these fuels and I would strongly urge those affected to get in touch with Consumer Focus. The more evidence they have the more effective they can be in calling for change."

Consumer Focus energy expert Robert Hammond said: "For too long the problems of those who aren't on the gas network have been ignored. Many of these consumers often have little choice about how they heat their homes and this can leave them paying a steep price. There is an opportunity for these customers to have their voices heard by letting us know the problems they face."

To have your say email: regulated.industries[AT]consumerfocus.org.uk or write to Andrew Hallett, Consumer Focus, Artillery House, 11-19 Artillery Row, London SW1P 1RT. Views may also be faxed to 0207 799 7901.

The closing date for views is Friday 14th August 2009.

(Consumer Focus was established in October 2008 through the merger of three organisations - energywatch, Postwatch and the National Consumer Councils (including the Scottish and Welsh Consumer Councils). Consumer Focus champions consumer rights by working to secure fairer markets, greater value for money and improved customer service).

Web Site
http://consumerfocus.org.uk/en/content/cms/Campaigns/heating_fuel/heating_fuel.aspx