Citizens Advice response to Ofgem’s consultation on proposal to defer the introduction of new questions for Social Obligations Reporting
In light of the increased regulatory demands on suppliers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Citizens Advice thinks that it is reasonable to defer the introduction of the new questions for the Social Obligations Reporting, due to be implemented in January 2021.
However we think the initial delay should be shorter than that proposed, until mid-2021 with a further review nearer the time. We’re keen that the new questions should be implemented ahead of winter 2021/22 if possible in order to ensure that a full data set for the period - when consumers are often at most risk - can be collected. This will make it easier to identify trends over time and help Ofgem monitor implementation of its important new protections for prepayment customers and people in debt.