Plans by energy giant EDF to increase gas and electricity prices by more than 10% is a reckless, dangerous move that will put the lives of vulnerable people at risk this winter, UNISON said today.
The union warned that, combined with soaring food prices, families struggling on low incomes, the vulnerable and elderly, will be forced to make the choice of heat or eat – feed their families or keep their homes warm.
Mike Jeram, UNISON Head of Business and Environment, said:
“The astonishing greed of EDF, and the other energy giants, of raising prices so substantially just as winter sets is in a reckless, dangerous move that will put lives at risk.
“Public sector workers have seen their pay frozen for nearly three years; how are they expected to absorb yet another massive price increase to the basic necessities? An increase of more than 10% is likely to be the turning point between staying afloat and sinking into debt.
“For vulnerable people, particularly pensioners who are already struggling by on a pittance, a terrible choice faces them: heat or eat.
“With recession supposedly over, the government may think they are out of the woods, but the reality for families struggling on low incomes is far bleaker. It’s time for the government to tackle fuel poverty head on before we see people dying for want of warmth.”
ENDS
