The reporting method used by industry media in the British gas market to assess daily prices — which are at the centre of a regulatory probe — is flawed and easy to manipulate, some traders in the sector say.

Downing Street has called for a speedy inquiry into allegations that Britain’s £300bn (€374bn) wholesale gas market has been “regularly” manipulated by some of the big power companies.

Downing Street has called for a speedy inquiry into allegations that Britain's £300bn (€374.8bn) wholesale gas market has been "regularly" manipulated by some of the big power companies.

The wholesale gas market sees the purchase and sale of energy products - electricity and natural gas – by energy producers and energy retailers.