GMB response to OFGEM gas distribution price controls...

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Date: 04 December 2007

Gary Smith, GMB National Secretary for Energy and Utilities said in response to today’s OFGEM proposals for 5 year gas distribution price controls, “Despite being urged by GMB to take steps to protect the security of the gas infrastructure, OFGEM has completely failed to make any provision to ensure that the security of gas pipelines is maintained. These are one of the most vulnerable elements of the national infrastructure. In the aftermath of the Government’s call for higher security measures to be implemented wherever they are needed, for OFGEM to ignore this potential threat is staggering. Once again, the Regulator has demonstrated that it is out of touch and puts bogus economics before safety and security of supply.

Contrary to the Regulator’s claim, OFGEM’s proposals are not a fair deal for the gas distribution networks or the consumer. The £80 million allowance for training and apprenticeships is inadequate, and the demand for a 2.5% increase in productivity is totally unrealistic.”

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Contact: Rose Conroy, GMB Press Officer on 07974 251823 or Steve Pryle, GMB

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