Chris Presses Government for Stronger Heating Oil Market Regulation

Chris is continuing to press the Government for stronger regulation of the heating oil market after ministers confirmed the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has begun investigating the sector.

The move follows significant concerns from households across rural communities, including many in Stirling and Strathallan, after heating oil prices surged in recent weeks. Many constituents experienced substantial increases in costs, with some reporting cancelled orders and difficulties accessing supplies.

In a Parliamentary Question submitted on behalf of local residents, Chris asked what discussions had taken place between ministers and the CMA on potential reforms to improve consumer protection in the heating oil market.

The Government confirmed that it is working closely with the CMA, which has launched an urgent investigation into the sector. Ministers said they will consider the findings of the review and explore options to strengthen consumer protections where necessary. They also stressed that the CMA will take action if businesses are found to have breached consumer protection laws.

Chris said:

“It is clear to me that the Government need to look at reforming the heating oil market, because too many local people are exposed to pricing shocks and unreliable service.

“I am glad that the response confirms that the Government is now actively working with the regulator and is prepared to consider stronger protections based on the CMA’s findings.

“It is particularly important that there are real consequences if companies have not treated customers fairly, and that any gaps in regulation are addressed quickly. For many households, especially in rural areas, heating oil is essential — so the market must be fair, transparent and properly regulated.”

Chris also highlighted the wider challenge of fuel poverty in rural communities, where many homes are not connected to the gas network and therefore do not benefit from the same protections available to other energy consumers.

He added:

“Fuel poverty, and the inability to heat homes adequately, is a direct consequence of inadequate regulation together with poor targeting of fuel poverty measures.

“It cannot be right that while most households across the UK are protected by an energy price cap, those dependent on heating oil are not afforded similar protections.

“We know that rural communities often have older housing stock that is harder to insulate, and larger numbers of vulnerable and elderly residents. To address these challenges, we need a partnership approach with targeted action.

“Having spoken with many constituents on this issue, it is clear to me that both the UK Government and the Scottish Government need to work together to tackle fuel poverty in rural areas.”

Chris has confirmed he will be writing to both UK and Scottish Government ministers to seek further action on rural fuel poverty and explore additional support for off-grid households.

The CMA is expected to publish its findings later this month. Chris has pledged to continue pressing for improvements to consumer protections and will keep constituents updated as the review progresses.