A row has erupted in connection with claims that British Gas has been massively increasing the direct debit payments for many of its customers in a bid to take advantage of increased use of fuel over the winter and to raise cash over the period. The energy giant has told many of its consumers that their monthly direct debits will be rocketing.
Many have said that the increase that British Gas in applying is far too much, and certainly far more than is necessary to cover increased usage. In the current financial climate, where many are struggling with their finances, the decision by British Gas to increase direct debits by such a huge amount has caused outrage.
One pensioner was told that her monthly direct debit would be increased from £90 a month to £142 a month. This is despite the fact that her account is over £250 in credit. She said: ‘I’ve got to find another £52 a month and I can’t stop worrying. I’m going round turning radiators-down. I think I’ve been conned.’
British Gas said: ‘We would expect customers to have a credit on their account at this time of year, which is built up through the summer. Customers get into credit because they chose to pay by monthly direct debit, which allows them to spread the cost of energy over the year.’
