PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
(7 September 2026)

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what comparative assessment her Department has made of domestic heating oil prices between in (a) Scotland and (b) other parts of the UK following publication of the Competition and Markets Authority's heating oil market study; and what steps she is taking to protect off-grid consumers ahead of winter.

Asked by:
Jamie Stone (Liberal Democrat)

We know that users of heating oil have been particularly impacted by the rise in prices due to the Middle East conflict. It is clear that the heating oil sector is not working as it should for consumers and we will fight the corner of all those affected by the rise in heating oil prices.

I note the concerns about price disparity between regions, the price of heating oil is not set by Government and suppliers are subject to UK competition and consumer protection law. Therefore, pricing should be fair, transparent and reflective of genuine market conditions - and we would ensure that any price gouging behaviour is appropriately dealt with. However, it should be noted that the CMA's market study found no widespread evidence of suppliers making excessive material profits.

In Scotland, £4.6 million has been allocated to the Scottish Emergency Oil Heating Scheme, which launched on 1 April 2026. The scheme aims to support vulnerable households with the increased cost of oil or LPG for heating. Households on a means-tested benefit, or those in financial hardship who have additional vulnerabilities, may be able to get support. The scheme is delivered by Advice Direct Scotland. More details can be found at: https://homeheatingadvice.scot/faqs/, or by calling 0800 048 7413.

We are considering the CMA’s recommendations to create a fairer system for households and commit to issuing an official response within 90 days.

Answered by:
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