by John Stevenson
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Dave Watson
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The energy market has failed consumers, especially
the ‘fuel poor', UNISON Scottish Organiser Dave
Watson told the STUC Congress.
Between 2003 and 2006 households paid £8.2 billion
or 60% more for gas and electricity. The excuse
was a rise in wholesale costs but a UNISON study
found that only accounted for £5.9 billion of the
increase, "leaving a golden hole of increased
profit margins of a staggering £2.3 billion",
said Dave.
"What was Ofgem's reaction? Firstly to deny
market failure, then when the facts and the noise
became irresistible, announce an inquiry. What they
should have said is that the so-called market they
created has failed. Let's go back to planning our
energy future", added Dave.
A balanced energy policy is needed to ensure security
of supply. Renewable energy has great potential
but Dave pointed to the planning objections to wind
power or the cable needed to transmit the power.
"Amazing how many people are in favour of
the next technology, as long as it isn't in their
backyard", he said.
Much was made of the existing renewables in Scotland
and Dave reminded delegates that much of that came
from Tom Johnson, a Labour Secretary of State who
had "the vision and powers to deliver this
generating capacity after the Second World War,
Does anyone really believe that the current market
mechanisms would deliver that level of change?"
asked Dave.
Scotland's
public service union
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