Energy Bill Crisis for Island Communities

That the Parliament notes reports of growing concerns about what it sees as the energy bill crisis, including in Na h-Eileanan an Iar; understands that Ofgem’s decision to raise the price cap will increase household energy bills by an average of 54%; considers that distribution levies unfairly penalise poorer people and those who live in rural areas; believes that the rise in energy costs from April will push many island households to breaking point; further believes that island residents are more vulnerable to what it sees as the current cost of living crisis due to existing higher living costs, including what it considers to be unfair energy levies, and to weather conditions, the lack of a mains gas option for most people, and low incomes in many areas; welcomes the Scottish Government's announcement of a £150 cost-of-living payment, which, together with funding for local authorities, will reportedly benefit 73% of households, and an additional £10 million to be targeted at people who are struggling to pay their fuel bills; considers that the power to make critical energy legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament; condemns the UK Government for, it believes, failing to step in further to prevent fuel poverty resulting from this situation; notes the calls for anyone who is struggling with their bills to contact Advice Direct Scotland for free practical advice; considers that the current devolution settlement prevents the Scottish Parliament from legislating directly on this issue, and notes the calls on the UK Government to do more to tackle what it believes to be the current fuel price crisis.