Energy firm linked to Russia to import gas to UK

In a confusing turn, the UK government has struck a massive energy deal with a firm that is still importing Russian gas into Europe. This despite ministers boasting of how they were driving Putin out of the market.

The scheme, which will see the UK import £8 billion worth of gas from TotalEnergies Gas and Power, will provide energy to town halls, government departments and most importantly the NHS.

The most interesting part of this deal is that it will help contribute to an energy plan that will run until 2027 and help centralise energy purchasing and reduce prices for public bodies. With the NHS predicted to save £100 million a year as a result of the scheme.

This whole deal whilst sensible in addressing the UK’s energy needs is quite confusing in that it seemingly contradicts everything the country’s politicians have said since 2022. Indeed, just last year, Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho urged allies to halt imports of Russian gas.  Thus you can understand the former head of the Parliamentary spending watchdog, Margaret Hodge’s claims of complete hypocrisy over this.

In reality, it seems the government has realised energy needs are more important that possible virtue signalling or moral standing. Whether they do a U-Turn on this as so much else remains to be seen.