PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
VARTEC TELECOM AND FAIR BILLING (4 May 2004)

That this House notes an increasing trend among utility companies to introduce unjustified charges into their billing arrangements that fall disproportionately heavily on the elderly, those who rely on carers to handle their financial affairs, those who do not have easy access to bank accounts and other vulnerable groups; considers that billing an additional charge for non-direct debit payment is an example of such unwelcome practice; accepts that it is reasonable to offer a discount for preferred payment methods but does not believe that there is any justification for charging customers extra for paying their bills in full and on time in cash or by cheque; and urges VarTec, who have this discriminatory regime and surcharge non-direct debit customers, to recognise their responsibility to their most vulnerable customers and introduce fair billing structures.

Sponsored by:
Gordon Marsden (Labour)