# Martin Lewis defends cold-weather tips after critics say they normalise fuel poverty

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/martin-lewis-faces-backlash-after-advising-britons-to-keep-warm-this-winter-by-buying-heated-gloves-hot-water-bottles-and-electric-blankets-amid-rising-energy-bills/
- Published: 2026-11-12T20:27:06+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-12T21:04:57+00:00
- Original publisher: Daily Mail (publisher lean: Right)
- Original article: https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-16287939/Martin-Lewis-backlash-advising-Britons-winter.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
- Topics: World

## Key points

- Lewis said his warmth tips were a last resort.
- Critics argued the advice normalised fuel poverty.
- Energy bills could rise by £276 in January.

## Summary

Martin Lewis defended his cold-weather advice after critics said suggestions such as heated gloves and electric blankets risked making fuel poverty seem normal. He said the tips were a last resort for people who could not afford to heat their homes, not a recommendation or a substitute for tackling high energy costs.

The MoneySavingExpert article also suggested wearing layers, eating at least one hot meal a day and using rugs or hot water bottles. Ofgem’s price cap rose by 4 per cent in October, and Cornwall Insight forecast a further 16 per cent rise to £1,999 a year from January, an increase of £276. The Government said it would ask Ofgem to remove standing charges in 2027 or as soon as possible afterwards, which could save 60 per cent of families £45 a year.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.