4. Statement by the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs: Fuel Poverty Plan

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:51 pm on 2 March 2021.

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Photo of Lesley Griffiths Lesley Griffiths Labour 3:51, 2 March 2021

I don't disagree with Mike Hedges at all. Of course, if you are living in fuel poverty, you will probably be in food poverty and other types of poverty. And, having been the Minister for tackling poverty a few years ago, again, it needs that cross-Government approach that Helen Mary Jones referred to to ensure that all Ministers are looking at their own policies and protocols and portfolios to ensure we are doing absolutely everything we can. But, as I said, we're on the back of a decade of austerity and, unfortunately, too many people are still living in fuel poverty and other forms of poverty here in Wales. 

I was incredibly disappointed to see that 9 per cent tariff cap announced by Ofgem, and the First Minister and I met with Ofgem last week, where we raised our concerns face to face, and I've also written to Ofgem and to the UK Government asking them to reconsider that decision. But, you asked what Members can do, well you, too, can certainly ensure that the UK Government are in no doubt about our concern. We will continue to do all we can. As you said, the Warm Homes programme has been very successful since we launched it back in 2011. We've put in significant investment, probably around £366 million, which has delivered improved energy and thermal efficiency of more than 61,400 homes, and more than 144,000 people have received home energy efficiency advice through the Nest helpline. That's something I've been really keen to ensure, that people are aware of the Nest helpline. And, again, perhaps Members, within their own constituencies and regions, could promote that helpline.