Moray MP Douglas Ross has “strongly welcomed” a huge package of support for businesses and other organisations in his constituency and across the United Kingdom who are struggling with rising energy prices.
The UK Government have confirmed that through their Energy Bill Relief Scheme, prices will be capped for firms for the next six months.
As well as struggling businesses like in the hospitality sector receiving the support, the cap will also apply to hospitals, schools, charities, churches and other settings like community halls in Moray.
The scheme will apply to fixed contracts agreed on or after 1 April 2022 and apply to energy usage from 1 October to 31 March 2023. The UK Government have committed to a review of the scheme within three months to give an early indication on whether further support will be needed beyond March next year.
Douglas says the UK Government have acted decisively and listened to the concerns from businesses and other organisations in Moray who have been left with hugely difficult choices with rising costs.
He added that this action for businesses comes quickly after the UK Government announced support for households to help them pay their energy bills, with bills capped at £2,500 for the next two years.
Douglas says that the UK Government are ensuring that residents, businesses and critical organisations across his Moray constituency have the support they need to get through the global cost-of-living crisis, rather than having to shut their doors.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “The UK Government have acted decisively and listened closely to the concerns raised by businesses and other organisations across Moray and the whole country who have been struggling with ever-increasing energy bills.
“The huge package of support confirmed by the UK Government gives businesses in Moray as well as places like hospitals, schools, churches and community halls reassurance and welcome relief that their bills will be capped for the next six months.
“The global cost-of-living crisis and Vladimir Putin’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine have meant costs have soared for them in recent months but the UK Conservative Government have stepped up and showed that they are on their side over this difficult period.
“These organisations and businesses are at the heart of the community in Moray and it would have been devastating to see them close their doors.
“While ultimately they will still be facing many tough challenges in the coming months, this will give them some breathing space as they look to make their businesses a success or keep vital local services operating at full capacity.
“This support will be delivered automatically but households and businesses who have any questions on the schemes being delivered should not hesitate to contact myself and my office where we are ready to help anyone who requires assistance.”