Bad news for consumers

The news that Centrica, the owner of British Gas, has suggested an increase in gas and electricity charges (your report, 13 May) is a disaster for hard-pressed customers. In January, it announced an increase in gas and electricity charges of 15 per cent, and the latest proposed rise is especially hard to take in that the firm has admitted the aim is to protect profits in its retail business.

In his Budget speech, Alistair Darling, the Chancellor, trumpeted an agreement that energy companies would invest more in helping fuel-poor customers, yet it has been reported that they are trying to divert some of this money to the Home Heat Helpline. Scotland is an energy-rich country, yet our consumers face repeated inflation-busting price rises simply to protect company profits. The UK government's inaction is unacceptable.

ALEX ORR

Bryson Road

Edinburgh