Cathy Jamieson MP joins The Big Switch to cut energy bills
Published 3 Apr 2012 09:30
Local MP Cathy Jamieson has backed 'The Big Switch' campaign for consumers to get a cheaper deal on their energy bills.
The Big Switch, launched last month by consumer champion Which? and 38 Degrees, is a new way for people to buy their energy. This will be the first time in the UK that a very large number of people will join together as a group to negotiate a deal with energy companies.
Cathy joined Shadow Energy Secretary Caroline Flint MP to urge constituents to add their names to the 200,000-strong group who have already signed up to The Big Switch, and to use their collective power to try to cut their energy bills and help shake up the market.
Which? has invited all energy companies to take part and will be negotiating with them to secure the cheapest deal. Energy companies will be asked to submit a market leading deal and take part in a reverse auction. If a deal is secured, Which? will contact everyone who signed up with a personalised savings estimate. Which? will handle the switching process, making it as quick and easy as possible.
Cathy said:
"Soaring energy bills are driving up inflation and contributing to the cost of living crisis afflicting millions of families. Labour believes that community action, including collective purchasing, is essential to reforming our energy market, and I am pleased to support the Big Switch campaign."
Which? Executive Director Richard Lloyd added:
"We know people are really struggling with their bills as household incomes are squeezed so it is encouraging that over 200,000 people are taking action to get a better deal on their energy bills.
"There is still time for people to join The Big Switch to get a cheaper deal so spread the word to your friends and family."
Shadow Energy Secretary Caroline Flint said:
"Collective switching is a simple but potentially trailblazing way to give people more control over their energy bills. When people come together, they will have more power to negotiate cheaper energy bills with the big energy companies."
"It sets an exciting precedent which organisations such as local authorities and housing associations could take up to negotiate better energy deals on behalf of their residents. Our energy market needs reform - and people power is the first step."
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