Prepayment meter energy customers and self-disconnection

That this House acknowledges the rising cost of energy for households; notes that prepayment meter customers pay more in standing charges and unit rates for energy; recognises that prepayment meter customers are not afforded the same rights when in energy debt as direct debit customers; understands that a prepayment meter customer can only get into limited amounts of debt, currently ten pounds, before self-disconnection is the only option available; acknowledges that self-disconnection could see the most vulnerable in our society left without heat, light and facilities to cook and wash over the coming winter; and strongly urges the Government to outlaw self-disconnection to ensure that the poorest and most vulnerable customers are not left without basic energy provision this winter.