Sir Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to ensure that all domestic energy customers are offered the facility to pay energy bills by cheque; and if his Department will issue guidance to energy suppliers on enabling customer payment by cheque.  [156915]

[Due for Answer on 7 March]

ANSWER 

The Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability (Amanda Solloway): The setting of tariffs, and associated payment methods, are a commercial decision for the energy companies. Regulation of the sector is the responsibility of independent regulator Ofgem.