A political pressure group says the public is being 'assailed virtually on a daily basis' by increased charges and taxes.

The Celtic League has responded to the news that there will be an increase in the standing charge for Manx Gas customers.

Manx Gas says the new charging system is cost neutral and the OFT, which now has a regulatory role, has agreed.

But Celtic League district secretary Bernard Moffatt says: ' As energy prices plummet globally there is one place on the planet where they are set to rise – the Isle of Man.

'Manx Gas has announced a reduction in gas prices but then by sleight of hand have effectively ‘jacked up’ bills for an estimated 7,000 consumers by increasing the ‘so called’ standing charge.

'The Manx public are assailed virtually on a daily basis by increased charges and taxes. This latest move is all the more cynical because it comes as the Island heads towards winter. If last year's mild winter is not repeated then many Manx people this year will have to decide whether to heat or eat.'

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