It is high time for David Cameron, who made his support to the UK's green sector ever so clear back in 2006, to intervene and bring his government once and for all together in support of a strong Energy Bill. Inter-departmental politicking and coalition in-fighting have been features of the debate around energy within government in recent months, to the frustration of environmental groups, consumer bodies and industry alike.

The energy companies deserve criticism; their tariffs are almost as confusing as the government's policies. But they are also a distraction. What's driven up consumer bills is the price of gas. If the prime minister wants to stabilise them, he'll need to stand up to his Chancellor, not just the utilities.