Oral Answers to Questions Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate

Oral Answers to Questions

David Nuttall Excerpts
Thursday 7th January 2016

(8 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text
Amber Rudd Portrait Amber Rudd
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

I can say very clearly to the hon. Lady that I do not agree with that position. Smart meters will have a great future in this country. We discussed in earlier questions energy security and fuel poverty. Smart meters will be a very good way for people to reduce their bills and use less energy, therefore creating fewer carbon emissions. Smart meters are an important part of that.

David Nuttall Portrait Mr David Nuttall (Bury North) (Con)
- Hansard - -

I have no doubt that the introduction of smart meters will help customers to control their energy bills, but, just so that they are aware of the background, will the Secretary of State confirm that the UK is rolling out smart meters because of European Union directive 2009/72/EC?

Amber Rudd Portrait Amber Rudd
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

My hon. Friend is right that the European Union has directives that give us guidance on this matter, but there is no question but that the initiative of smart meters is of huge advantage to UK customers. UK customers and consumers will always be put first.