Most homes to get energy bill discount of £350, bbc.co.uk

Complaint

A reader complained that the use of the word "discount" in the headline to this article was misleading because it included £200 which consumers would have to pay back. The ECU considered this complaint in the light of the BBC Editorial Standards relating to accuracy.

Outcome

In the ECU’s view the article explained clearly how the system would work with part of the Chancellor’s package a one off reduction in gas bills repayable over five years. The author either used phrases such as “repayable £200 discount” or attributed the term to the Chancellor. However this issue was the subject of keen party political debate and, in isolation, the headline was materially misleading as most people would not expect to repay a discount.  Accordingly the complaint was upheld.
Upheld

Further action

The finding was reported to the Board of BBC News and discussed with the online team concerned.  Following the complaint the headline was edited to read “Most homes to get energy bill relief of £350”.