The government has defended its decision to end the so-called "warm front" energy efficiency scheme, during an opposition day debate on fuel poverty and energy efficiency.

The scheme, which helps the poorest with their fuel bills by providing heating and insulation worth up to £3,500, comes to an end on 19 January.

Labour claimed in the Commons on 16 January 2013 that thousands of people will be plunged into fuel poverty and forced to choose between "eating and heating".

But Energy Secretary Ed Davey said a new scheme, paid for by energy firms, would be an improvement.

The opposition motion - calling on the government to reduce fuel poverty and take action against energy firms not fulfilling carbon emission reduction targets - was defeated by an 80-majority.

A household is considered to be in fuel poverty if more than 10% of its income is spent on home heating.

The Fuel Poverty Advisory Group, which is funded by the Department of Energy, estimates that nine million people could meet that criteria by 2016, and that 300,000 additional homes will be added to that figure this winter alone.

Energy prices have risen by 7% on average this year, taking the average annual direct debit bill to £1,247.