UK News

Is the energy package enough?

Gordon Brown has unveiled an energy package designed to give some relief to householders struggling with ever-rising gas and electricity bills.

The six major energy suppliers will contribute to a one billion pound, three-year energy-saving initiative — but will not face a windfall tax on their profits.

Pensioners and people on low incomes or benefits will receive free loft and cavity wall insulation, while others will receive a 50 percent discount. The government says 12 million elderly households will benefit from the plan this Winter. 

Other measures include:

* A freeze on this year’s bills for 500,000 poor customers

* Partial reversal of the cut to the warm front programme giving free central heating to poorest pensioners