5 September 2006
Industry watchdog energywatch has predicted further electricity and gas price rises over the winter.
Allan Asher, energywatch chief executive, said there were tough times ahead for consumers with those who are vulnerable and on the lowest incomes becoming the hardest hit.
Mr Asher's comments followed yesterday's price increase by British Gas. The supplier increased its gas prices by 12.4% and its electricity prices by 9.4%.
He told the BBC One Breakfast programme: "Consumers are going to have a really tough time.
"We think prices are likely to go up further, and this is particularly a problem for the vulnerable. There are millions of households now where more than 10% of the whole household income is going to pay energy bills.
"Too often it means a choice between heating and eating and that is just unacceptable."
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