Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what her Department’s timetable is for introducing regulation of the heating oil sector; and how she plans to engage with rural residents who are off grid and dependent on heating oil on regulatory proposals.

The government published its formal response to the CMA heating oil report on 13 October, confirming it will take forward proposals to introduce stronger regulations for the first time.

The government will take forward a programme of reform to establish a stronger consumer protection framework for households. Working with Ofgem, the devolved governments and industry and consumer representatives, we will develop options for proportionate regulation that puts consumer rights at its core, while supporting competition, investment and security of supply.

This will be underpinned by a robust evidence base, extensive engagement and the appropriate legislative framework. The Government is regulating the heat oil sector for the first time.