Tories urge Andy Burnham not to launch an ‘expensive energy bailout for Benefits Street’ after calls from the left for new Government action to help low-income households
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham not to introduce targeted energy bill support for people receiving benefits. The disagreement comes as energy bills have risen sharply, creating pressure on the Government to provide additional assistance to vulnerable households facing a cost of living crisis.
The energy price cap rose 4 per cent on Thursday to an average of £1,723 for dual fuel bills, with experts predicting a further 16 per cent increase in January that would take bills to £1,999. The Prime Minister has removed VAT from electricity bills, saving households approximately £45 annually, but the Trades Union Congress and some Labour MPs are calling for more substantial measures such as a "social tariff" for low-income households. The Conservatives say the solution lies in North Sea oil and gas drilling and the removal of renewable energy subsidies from bills.
- Tory leader opposes energy help specifically for benefits claimants
- Energy bills rising to £1,723 with further 16% increase predicted for January
- Government and Opposition split on how to address cost of living crisis
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Energy bills in Britain have risen significantly, putting pressure on households already struggling with the cost of living. The price cap rose again on Thursday and experts expect a further large increase in January, meaning many families will face bills of nearly £2,000 annually for heating and electricity.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham's Government has removed VAT from electricity bills, saving households about £45 per year. The Trades Union Congress and some Labour MPs want stronger action, such as lower energy rates for people receiving benefits, but Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch is urging against introducing such measures.
The disagreement reflects different views on how to tackle the crisis. The Conservatives argue the answer lies in increased North Sea oil and gas drilling and removing renewable energy subsidies from bills, whereas those pushing for more help believe targeted support for the poorest households is necessary to prevent hardship.