PM rules out energy bill handouts

Gordon Brown (pictured) has ruled out giving cash handouts to families struggling to pay winter energy bills. He made the announcement during a speech to business leaders in Scotland last night (September 4).

The Prime Minister said there would be “no short-term gimmicks or giveaways”, but added that he would soon unveil proposed measures to assist people in dealing with rising gas and electricity costs.

The proposals are expected to focus on helping to make homes more energy efficient.

In his speech, Brown said: “At the heart of our approach must be a revolution in the way we think about and use resources; reducing our dependence on oil and by creating a low carbon economy achieving both security of energy supply and greater efficiency of energy use.”

The speech follows speculation that ministers would offer a £100-£150 winter fuel allowance to certain households in need of assistance.