LOCAL MP Patricia Gibson is leading the charge against high energy prices across the country.

Backed by 193 cross party MP, she has urged the UK Government to introduce an energy price cap to protect families from a £1,400 million a year rip-off.

At the election, the PM promised to protect 17 million families on standard variable tariffs with an energy price cap on household bills. Yet the proposals protect only two million.

Ms Gibson said: “In my own constituency of North Ayrshire & Arran, it is a disgrace that 23,514 families are overpaying for energy by £5.5 million per year.

“17 million consumers - two thirds of all UK customers - have been ripped off by the ‘Big Six’ for decades. And Ofgem have chosen to stand idly by, leaving 15 million customers on standard variable tariffs.

“It is time for the Government to act.”