9 out of 10 Brits want independent energy inquiry

Nine out of ten energy consumers in the UK would welcome an independent inquiry into the Big Six power suppliers, a new study has found.

A further 70% said a levy should be enforced on the profits made by the biggest energy companies, in the poll carried out by YouGov on behalf of Compass and Friends of the Earth.

Such a levy should be ring-fenced in order to help those in fuel poverty and ensure all homes are properly insulated, according to 77% of respondents.

Andy Atkins, Executive Director of Friends of the Earth, said: "We all lost out from the government's failure to stand up to the banks - now we need tough action into the ongoing scandal of cold homes, rip-off bills and the Big Six's influence over our politicians."

Research released by Consumer Focus late last year suggested that one in four households in the UK are living in fuel poverty, meaning 10% of their disposable income is spent on energy bills.