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Sir Keir Starmer has committed to taking firm action against companies in Northern Ireland that are exploiting the ongoing fuel crisis, which has been intensified by the conflict in the Middle East. During his visit to Northern Ireland, the prime minister emphasized that the government would not hesitate to intervene if businesses are found charging unfairly high prices for heating oil. His visit included discussions with local party leaders and a stop at a community centre.
Highlighting the reliance of the majority of Northern Ireland households on heating oil, Starmer stressed that pricing should be fair, transparent, and justifiable. He expressed concern that costs should not be artificially inflated at the expense of working families. Nearly two-thirds of homes in the region use oil for heating, the highest proportion in the UK, with industry figures indicating that prices have more than doubled after the US attack on Iran.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is actively investigating whether suppliers and intermediaries are engaging in practices that breach consumer protection laws. Of particular interest to the CMA is whether existing oil supply orders are being canceled only for new quotes to be presented at significantly higher prices. Starmer made it clear, “If companies hike prices without justification the government will act,” and added that profiteering and unfair business practices will not be tolerated.
Following his arrival in Northern Ireland, Starmer also addressed the need to “reset the relationship” between the UK and Ireland. Ahead of the second UK-Ireland summit in Cork, he reflected on efforts to improve ties since assuming office. The summit will focus on collaboration in areas like infrastructure, clean energy, and innovation, aiming to strengthen cooperation under the theme “Shared Prosperity, Shared Seas, Shared Ties.” Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership, highlighting progress made since the inaugural Liverpool summit and emphasizing a commitment to deepen the relationships between the two nations through 2030
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