More utility cut-offs in poor areas

Energy suppliers were today accused of targeting the poor when they disconnect gas and electricity customers.

Consumer watchdog energywatch said someone living in deprived east London is five times more likely to have their gas or electricity cut off than the average customer. About 17,000 disconnections occur annually, of which almost a third happen to the poorest 13 per cent of the population.

MPs on the trade and industry Commons select committee, which is holding an investigation into disconnections, will be presented with energywatch's findings today.