British Gas admits error and pays out £300

British Gas has promised to credit a licensee up to £300, admitting it made an error, after an intervention by the Publican's Morning Advertiser​.

Matthew Johnstone of the Victors in Ripley, Derbyshire, decided to move to British Gas for his gas supply, but was told just five days

before his contract was due to start that British Gas would not be taking over because of "credit worthiness concerns". However, Johnstone said he called credit check company Experian to find that the bar had an "unblemished credit record" and he was already with British Gas for electricity.

After two days of sending copies of his accounts to British Gas, Johnstone explained that the supplier agreed to provide the gas, but could not start until three weeks later than planned.

Shell Gas, his previous supplier, continued to supply the gas but at a non-contract rate, which resulted in a £430 bill.

He said: "Businesses should be-ware and ensure they have been accepted as customers well before their only option is to accept uncontracted supply at exorbitant rates." James Colman, head of communications for British Gas Business, said: "British Gas Business has apologised for the inconvenience caused to Mr Johnstone and the Victors Pub. We have updated our credit vetting processes, including using Experian, which should avoid these issues in the future. We are also crediting his account for the additional charges incurred during the out-of-contract period."

The Morning Advertiser's Energy Price Watch appeal aims to help licensees keep an eye on the latest offers and issues.

Have you recently negotiated your utility bills? What deal did you get? Have you had an issue with your supplier? Email thewvg.qrtha@jeoz.pbz​.​