A peaceful demonstration took place outside the House of Keys on Tuesday to highlight concerns over the present Manx Gas charging system.

About 40 people voiced their concerns about the utility’s standing charges.

Manx Gas has operated its banded standing charges since January 2016, with the lowest charge being at 16p and the highest at £2.13 per day.

Complaints have been made that people are paying more charges for gas than they actually use.

MHKs Martyn Perkins, Rob Callister and Julie Edge spoke with the protestors on the day about the upcoming debates and changes to the service.

The last protest against the pricing structure involved about 100 people outside the House of Keys on September 19.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle later announced that a committee would be set up to review service providers, in particular Manx Gas and its prices.

Barry Murphy, an organiser of the ’Winter of Discontent’ protest, said: ’I would be hopeful that any committee would be looking at banning the current charges, as it’s a complicated system.

’Manx Gas needs to be transparent. People need to understand the system, otherwise the system isn’t working.

’There’s a lot going on with this problem, but it doesn’t seem to be communicated to the public.

’I believe that Manx Gas are going to make a presentation soon, regarding their charges and the way that they determine their costs. However, I wasn’t aware of this until I was told at the protest.

’Manx Gas hasn’t come forward with a new solution and it benefits them to not be in a major rush.’

Mr Murphy is concerned about those who may be struggling financially due to the standing charges.

’People are finding it difficult to stay warm in the winter because of the unfair charges,’ he said.

’It’s a service that is affecting working-class people and we need to be looking after our people.’