A CONSUMER watchdog has said it will not be getting involved in a row over higher gas bills - brought about by problems with a new computer system.

Thousands of British Gas customers face bills up to 50 per cent higher than usual because of delays caused by changes to the company's computer system.

Customers are being billed for an extended quarter but have been assured it will mean their next bills will be lower than normal.

Customers have complained that the higher bills will hit many people on low incomes including the unemployed and the elderly. But the official regulator for the industry, OFGAS says it has no power to intervene over the move by British Gas.

A spokesman said: "There is no obligation to send bills out quarterly. It is done for the convenience of customers. Anyone who has problems can contact their local billing office to make suitable arrangements.

"British Gas are currently changing their computer system and they are keeping us up to date on the progress."

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