Angus MP Dave Doogan has written to the embattled Chancellor of the Exchequer demanding targeted additional support for people and families in the coldest parts of the UK to assist with the cost of living crisis. 

Quoting from recently published research showing that Scotland has some of the highest energy bills in the UK and analysis from ‘Compare Boiler Quotes’ setting out these statistics, from the Scottish Government’s Energy Statistics Hub, for each local authority area.   

These results have shown that Angus is in the costliest third of places in Scotland with the highest energy costs, paying £60.56 more per year on gas and electricity than the average Scottish home. Furthermore, these statistics were compiled before the 54% price rise on energy bills was applied on April 1 so the position is in fact much worse.   

The Angus parliamentarian confirmed:

“Angus constituents have contacted me on this matter to express their anxiety regarding whether or not they will be able to pay their bills at these inflated prices. Many have also stated that this cost-of-living crisis is forcing them to make extremely difficult decisions on whether to warm their homes or feed their families.

“With more than 80% of people in Scotland already worried about the rising cost of bills, it is extremely concerning that bills are set to rise again in October. Heating bills are significantly higher is Scotland and the UK Government must acknowledge this in the context of the cost of living crisis many now face.

“I have demanded that the UK Government urgently stands up measures over the summer months to put in place additional financial support to protect people and families struggling to afford inflated home energy costs with particular regard to those living in the coldest parts of these islands which will include Angus.”

Analysis here: Scottish Energy Statistics Hub (shinyapps.io)