Ofgem considers subsidy to level energy costs for prepayment and direct debit customers

Regulator defends suppliers who have forced people on to meters

Ofgem is considering closing the gap between the cost of energy bills for customers on prepayment meters and those on direct debits - but has defended suppliers who have forced people on to the meters.

Jonathan Brearley, the chief executive of Ofgem, told MPs the energy regulator was examining whether a subsidy could be introduced to create a level playing field.