A LOCAL MP has grilled the UK Government for answers on an energy efficient scandal which affected people across Renfrewshire.

Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, held a debate in Westminster Hall this week on the UK Green Deal and highlighted the 3,000 Scottish households affected by the mis-selling of energy efficiency products by HELMS, which crashed into liquidation after being fined £200,000 by the Information Commissioner’s Office last year for making more than six million nuisance calls. 

The scandal has left many with debts and some have been unable to sell their property. 

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The SNP MP has called for the UK Government to offer financial support to those that have been left in debt after signing up to the scheme.

Commenting after the debate, Mr Newlands said “The implementation of the UK Government’s so called ‘Green Deal’ has been disastrous. 

“What started out as a good idea in theory has been an unmitigated disaster for thousands of families. 

“When people see a UK Government logo on the paperwork they expect the highest level of financial security and an exceptional standard of accreditation. Yet firms like HELMS have used extremely questionable tactics to get a quick sale for installations that consumers often didn’t need.

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“This scheme was supposed to provide energy efficient homes, but all it has done is place millions of pounds in the hands of a few individuals who have inflicted severe stress on people who just wanted some home improvements. The UK Government must provide answers, but they must also act to provide financial redress for the difficulties they have caused.”