BISHOP Auckland MP Helen Goodman has taken up the issue of rising energy prices with Government ministers.

Ms Goodman has lent her support following calls for help from householders and businesses, and is calling for changes to be made in this week's Budget.

She has been in close contact with a number of companies in her constituency which have temporarily stopped work due to the higher costs.

She has raised her concerns with ministers at the Department of Trade and Industry and challenged Alan Johnson, the Secretary of State, in the House of Commons.

"Gas prices have risen rapidly in recent months as demand has outstripped supply," she said.

"The increased costs have hit some businesses hard. I am also very concerned about older people being forced into fuel poverty.

"I have now taken up the issue with the Treasury as I am deeply concerned that British companies are not competing on a level playing field with their foreign counterparts.

"Wholesale gas prices are significantly lower in mainland Europe and this is not sustainable."