A LOCAL MP has raised fears in the House of Commons that oil companies may be charging more for supplies due to the cold weather.

Julian Smith, the Conservative member for Skipton and Ripon, has called for a debate on the matter to see what the Government is to do to tackle it.

Many residents have spoken to Mr Smith about the problem and he has raised the issue in the House of Commons.

Mr Smith, speaking in the Commons, said: "May we have a debate on what pressure the Government could bring to bear on oil companies, which appear to have taken advantage of the very poor weather in recent months?"

Later he said: "I know that the rising cost of heating oil is having a major impact on many rural communities across the Skipton and Ripon constituency.

"I will continue to make sure the Government appreciates the problems and press Ministers to take action."

Sir George Young MP, leader of the House of Commons, said many MPs with rural areas had voiced similar concerns.

He said: "I believe that the matter is being taken up with the Office of Fair Trading, to see whether there is a case for investigation.

"I will ask the relevant Secretary of State to write to my honourable Friend, outlining the action that the Government are taking to make sure that consumers are not ripped off."