British Gas owner boosts profits

Lewis Whyld/PA Wire/Press Association Images

The owner of British Gas has increased profits at its residential arm by 23% in a move fanning flames of anger over recent price hikes.

Centrica said profits at British Gas Residential, which has 15.8 million energy accounts in the UK, lifted to £345 million in the six months to June 30 after volumes were boosted by the cool start to the summer.