Why Bexhill and Battle need a windfall tax

House prices are less predictable, big banks like Northern Rock have come near to collapse, and the pound is falling against the euro.

Yet the issue which has affected people most directly is the recent dramatic rise in energy prices. People who could once easily afford to pay their bills are now struggling to heat their homes '“ and this is as true in Bexhill and Battle as anywhere.

It is surely a good thing to pay attention to how much energy we consume, both economically and environmentally. But we shouldn't have to go without heating because we can't afford it.

The recent changes in prices have also meant that energy companies have been making much bigger profits than usual.

So I believe we should listen to the recent suggestion of a windfall tax '“ a one-off levy on excessive profits among energy companies '“ and that the proceeds should go directly towards helping people pay their energy bills.

Those opposed to a windfall tax argue that we shouldn't punish successful companies when they haven't broken the law. This is true, but when these profits mean people are being denied basic necessities, the Government needs to act.

These are testing times ahead economically. The Government is already taking longer term measures to make sure those in the most need cope - 910m has been put aside to help people get cheaper insulation (call 0800 512 012 for information on this), and cold weather payments are set to increase from 8.25 to 25 a week. But there is still more to be done '“ and a windfall tax would definitely be a step in the right direction.