LABOUR MP Gordon Prentice has been praised by campaigners who are fighting for warmer homes.

Pendle member Mr Prentice is supporting the Warm Homes Bill, which would create a national programme for installing energy efficiency measures such as insulation and efficient heating systems.

Martyn Williams, Parliamentary co-ordinator of Friends of the Earth and organiser of the Warm Homes Campaign, said he was delighted Mr Prentice was backing the bill.

Studies have shown that while the UK death rate rises by 30 per cent during winter, the rise in Norway and Sweden - where average temperatures are lower - is closer to 10 per cent.

Mr Williams said: "It's a scandal that a country like Britain should allow thousands of elderly people to die every year from fuel poverty."

David Amess MP, who came fifth this year in the ballot for private members' bills, is to introduce the bill, with a second reading on Friday.

Mr Prentice said: "I am pleased to support the Warm Homes Bill, which will bring welcome relief to many of my constituents, who simply can't keep warm in winter.

"I very much hope it becomes law as soon as possible."

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