A decision by Manx Gas to remove a discount from customers who don't pay their bill by direct debit was described as 'extremely disappointing' by Chief Minister Allan Bell in Tynwald today.

Customers who pay by direct debit get a 2.5 per cent prompt payment discount.

But those who are unable to pay by direct debit won't receive it.

Quizzing the Chief Minister over the profits agreement with Manx Gas, Onchan MHK Peter Karran asked whether the government would express its displeasure over a decision he said affected the most vulnerable in society.

Mr Bell agreed: 'It is extremely disappointing the company should decide to take this step, particularly when so many households are under pressure.'

He said that the chairman of the Office of Fair Trade, David Quirk MHK, should make 'appropriate representations' to Manx Gas.


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