25 September 2008
One in five British consumers would support a windfall tax on the profits of gas and electricity providers, according to a new survey. The poll, by Opinium Research, reveals that 78% of people think the profits generated by the firms are unfair, while two-fifths back a rebate on fuel bills for poorer households. Earlier this month, the prime minister unveiled plans to provide free insulation for pensioners and low income families, although he stopped short of introducing a one off levy on energy companies. Mark Hodson of Opinium Research said: "Rising energy bills have affected the majority of people in the past year and the public seem to be as disheartened by the recent energy measures as they are by green taxes." He said almost two-thirds of British consumers believe the government should have gone further in its attempts to help those struggling with soaring gas and electricity bills. Critics of the government's insulation plans claim they could push bills even higher as energy providers look to offset the costs of the programme.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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