Energy Bill

They have very large envelopes at Ofgem; I have seen them. The first stage of impact assessment work has been valuable in demonstrating the range of complex issues involved in a domestic smart meter roll-out, and some of them will need further in-depth analysis over the coming months. We therefore intend to take forward a further phase of work in consultation with stakeholders. Our aim will be to ensure that we have the best possible assessment of costs and benefits before taking any final policy decisions on a small business and domestic roll-out. Before I give way to the hon. Member for Montgomeryshire (Lembit Öpik), I should say that our intention is to report our work on these analyses to the House by the end of the year.