Energy prices

With gas and electricity bills soaring, cabinet minister Ed Davey tells the energy companies they should stop “squeezing” their customers in pursuit of higher profits.

Business in the UK is suffering a crisis of public confidence and is seen by some as the “enemy”, an industry leader tells the CBI conference.

Energy Secretary Ed Davey sets out reforms to the energy market which could see consumers able to switch suppliers within 24 hours – and firms face criminal sanctions.

Energy company bosses tell MPs that wholesale price rises, transport costs and green taxes are behind the recent hikes passed on to consumers.

The head of Britain’s “big six” energy companies are questioned by MPs about allegations that they have abused their power over the market by putting up electricity and gas prices.

Leaders of the Unite union have decided to “embrace” a survival plan proposed by the owners of the massive Grangemouth plant. The management have yet to respond.

As the row over energy bills heats up, Nick Clegg warns David Cameron that stripping green levies could cost jobs and reduce support for poor households.

The government is to launch a review of the energy sector and green taxes in response to inflation-busting rises in gas and electricity bills.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby calls on the Big Six energy companies to be aware of their “social obligations” to the public and warns that the latest price rises appear “inexplicable”.

Ministers advise people to don an extra jumper in the battle against rising energy prices.

Energy Minister Greg Barker tells Channel 4 News that consumers are being “robbed” by energy companies, as British Gas announces a 9 per cent bills hike, but insists the government has acted to help.

Chinese-designed nuclear plants could be built in the UK under a deal announced by George Osborne. But is the Chinese system for regulating its nuclear industry really rigorous and incorruptible?