UK organisations urge chancellor to drop hidden energy taxes

A coalition of more than 120 organisations, including major businesses and charities, has urged the government to shoulder the cost of “hidden taxes” that have been added to energy bills. In a joint letter to the chancellor, signatories such as Energy UK, the Confederation of British Industry, End Fuel Poverty and Age UK called for the government to pay levies that currently account for 10 % of energy bills, arguing that the charges are driving up consumer costs and threatening the viability of businesses.

The letter arrives ahead of Chancellor John Healey’s first budget, scheduled for presentation on 28 October. The organisations contend that removing these levies would ease financial pressure on households and help prevent business closures. The government’s response to the request is yet to be announced.