Vince Cable

Vincent Cable MP criticised the power company EDF for 'heartless incompetence' in ignoring the plight of dozens of Whitton residents who were cut off from electricity supplies in the two whole days.

9 February (from 22.15) to 11 February (to 22.00) - in the middle of a severe cold spell with sub-zero temperatures.

There have been numerous power cuts in the past - 11 in 2008 - and Vincent Cable MP was assured by the French boss of the company M de Rivaz, last year, that the problem was being solved. It wasn't and the residents of Rydal Gardens, Runnymede Road and, for the first time, Coniston Road were subject to prolonged power cuts during the coldest spell of the year. Vincent Cable said: "The power company made a total mess of this problem. When residents were shivering and on the brink of hyperthermia, maintenance staff refused to use a junction box because they were afraid they would be accused of 'trespassing' on a garden.

"The company commitments include emergency 'doorstep help including hot meals, drinks and advice'. No help was provided.

"The company were incompetent and heartless. I want the senior management to come to a meeting in Whitton to explain themselves."