A conference on fuel poverty in Scotland is to be held in Dundee.

The two-day event will discuss the problem of cold homes and how fuel poverty can be tackled in Scotland.

Energy Action Scotland has organised the conference, which is being opened by Joe FitzPatrick, Minister for Parliamentary Business.

He is expected to speak on the government’s current initiatives to improve the energy efficiency of homes, help maximise incomes and reduce the impact of fuel bills.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is backing Mr Fitzpatrick’s message.

She said: “Scotland is an energy rich nation and everyone should live in a safe, warm, affordable home.

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"This government is tackling fuel poverty head on, and has a broad range of measures in place to help Scottish households to cut their energy bills. Just last week we announced an additional £6m for the Universal Home Insulation Scheme, which will help up to 10,000 households to cut their energy bills this winter.

"The UK Government – which has responsibility for this area - is simply not doing enough to regulate the market, and we are urging them to take a firmer stance with energy companies to help the thousands of households who are already struggling to pay their bills."

Norman Kerr, Director of Energy Action Scotland, said: "It is important to ensure that all angles are looked at in the bid to end fuel poverty. Technologies are available to improve the energy efficiency of homes, but better ways are needed to both inform and make them accessible to the public.

"Who bears the cost must also be considered, as this currently adds to fuel bills. Meanwhile, household budgets are under pressure and the effects are especially felt by those on a low income."

(IT/GK)