Caroline Flint, the chair of the Committee on Fuel Poverty, has expressed concerns that fuel poverty levels have not decreased significantly over the last five years, with 13.1 million English households still affected. She called for more support for household bills this winter, particularly for vulnerable households. Energy debt levels are at a record high, according to Emma Pinchbeck, chief executive of Energy UK, who also recommended shifting policy costs from electricity bills to general taxation to balance costs between electricity and gas. The Labour government is urged to provide enduring support for energy bills, particularly as the nation moves towards increasing renewable energy sources.
FTSE 100 has seen minor gains in trading, with few big movers. Energy bosses are set to meet with Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh to address fuel debts and energy consumer issues during the winter season. The Financial Conduct Authority has launched an investigation into insurers over concerns about the life insurance market, focusing on potential conflicts of interest and fair value for consumers. These developments highlight the ongoing challenges in the energy and insurance sectors and the need for government intervention to support vulnerable households and ensure fair market practices.
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