DUP Deputy Leader Nigel Dodds has called on the Government to focus on the needs of households who are not connected to mains gas and are heavily dependent on home heating oil. He raised the issue during Business Questions in the House of Commons calling for a debate to explore ways the assistance available.

The North Belfast MP said: "There has been a great deal of focus recently on energy companies and attempts to curtail the rising costs of energy for households. Given the increased cost of living and pressures on budgets everyone would welcome this, but attention should also be given to the many homes who are not connected to the gas grid and are heavily dependent on home heating oil.

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"This is a particular concern in more rural parts of the United Kingdom such as Northern Ireland where 68% of homes are dependent on oil fired heating systems. This figure rises to over 80% in rural areas. The Consumer Council has highlighted that since 2009 the average price of home heating oil has increased by 62% and whilst gas bills have increased also during this period the rises have not been as steep."

(CD/JP)