As from 1st October 2013

That's no surprise then!

I wonder what happened to all those stories that were around a few months ago saying that the standing charges were going to be increased but the unit price would be reduced?

That was a few months ago. Ancient history. Maybe they decided not to drop the prices after all. No doubt they'll want to keep the increased standing charges though. Or maybe it's all just the usual misinformation that Spain is famous for.

In any case I find it hard to be shocked.

Yep so next time I go to the across the Spanish border I am purchasing a load of candles, they are cheaper there.. ...sell them on ebay, next week Rodney we will be millionaires