SO, the Government has decided not to levy a windfall tax on the energy-supply companies. No surprise there, given that New Labour always cosies up to big business. But even if they had gone ahead with the type of windfall tax that they were toying with,

SO, the Government has decided not to levy a windfall tax on the energy-supply companies. No surprise there, given that New Labour always cosies up to big business.

But even if they had gone ahead with the type of windfall tax that they were toying with, it would not have been of much use.

The oil companies have been making billions from the oil price rises we have all experienced over the last 12 months. The people of this country have paid for this through higher food, fuel and energy prices.

The Green Party is calling for a windfall tax on the oil companies, not merely on the middlemen who supply us in our homes.

Targeting the companies that supply power to our homes would be only tackling the symptom, not the underlying source of the money that is being ripped off from us.

CLLR RUPERT READ

Prospective Green Party MEP for Eastern Region

Norwich

ALL the unions at last week's TUC conference backed the call for a windfall tax on the super profits of the energy companies.

Since 2003, energy companies have increased their profits by 538 per cent to £3billion. They have raised prices by up to 35 per cent this year alone.

The energy industry spends just £50million a year combating fuel poverty, despite the huge hikes in prices, profits and share dividends.

Heartless excuses from the energy companies for not fulfilling their social responsibilities have been swallowed hook, line and sinker by New Labour.

Winter is approaching and in the coming months low income families will be forced to switch their heating off because they won't be able to afford the bill.

It's surely time for a windfall tax on the super profits of the energy companies.

JOHN SMITHEE

Kingsley Avenue

Wisbech

YET again the Government promises much and delivers nothing to the vulnerable and elderly over Fuel Poverty

What thousands would give for that peace of mind when the brown envelope lands on the doorstep!

Insulation fine, cavity wall fine, but where is the "beef" in this so-called package which will prevent thousands of our citizens from having to make real choice between eating, heating and living?

What a monumental disgrace in the fourth wealthiest economy. Labour ministers should hang their heads in shame and go - quickly.

CLLR GEOFFREY HEATHCOCK

Shadow Lib Dem Cabinet Member for Health, Communities and Adult Social Care

Shire Hall

Cambridge