[jl6]

This seems to be a really basic economic point that isn’t in the mainstream dialogue anywhere. Subsidizing demand is simply bartering up the price and hoping the UK can outspend everyone else to get hold of the same finite quantity of gas.

[kaashif]

The problem is that other countries are already subsidising their demand. If the UK doesn't follow suit, prices will quickly rise beyond consumers' abilities to pay. But if everyone uses this logic, prices will just keep spiralling out of control with no end.

I guess the UK does have some domestic gas production, so could ban exports of that and institute price controls severe rationing.