12 August 2008
Gordon Brown is reported to be considering a £150 windfall to help homeowners meet their gas and electricity costs this winter. It is understood that a one-off payment to all households receiving child benefit has been proposed as part of a wider economic package. The proposals, if given approval in parliament, would benefit seven million families struggling to pay their gas and electricity bills following further energy price increases. Details of the scheme emerged after Sir Brian Bender, Permanent Secretary to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, was overheard discussing the plans with a colleague on a train. Over-60s - who already receive an annual winter fuel allowance - will receive a payment of at least £250 this year, the government announced in March. Over-80s will receive £400. The news comes after EDF Energy and British Gas both announced increases in the cost of their gas and electricity for domestic customers.
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