SDLP South Down MP Margaret Ritchie has called on the Consumer Council to investigate the substantial increase in the standing charge for Calor Gas cylinders from £35 to £142.

"The standing charge was £35 for many years and undoubtedly due to market forces and the economic recession, Calor Gas unilaterally decided to increase it with, what appears to be, no consultation with customers.

-- Advertisement --

"Therefore, I am now urging the Consumer Council to undertake an immediate inquiry as to the reasons why such increases came about and to bring about a series of recommendations with mitigation measures which would be capable of acceptance and implementation by Calor Gas to help those who have endured such increases."

(CD)