THE public utilities are making huge profits at a time when the incomes of most families are at a standstill.

Councillor Kevin Thompson and I have made inquiries about using coal gasification as an alternative.

I understand that there is a new plant at Firth in Scotland. I have asked whether there are any projects in prospect for the North-East.

We have about 500 years supply of coal. It would make sense to use it, rather than rely on the importation of coal and gas and accept the unaffordable price increases.

My Lib Dem collegue, councillor Mark Wilkes, has made representation to Chris Hulme, the Energy Minister, about the huge increases that the energy firms are charging.

I regret the day that they were privatised. For some people it was a short term gain, through share ownership, followed by constant price increases that both the consumer and the country cannot afford.

Councillor Ben Ord, Spennymoor Liberal Democrats.