FAMILIES are set for a double energy price cap blow this year — despite Sir Keir Starmer’s vow to make them better off.
Households face a further rise in April — on top of today’s one per cent increase, which is taking the typical bill from £1,717 to £1,738.
Analysts at Cornwall Insight have raised their previous forecast for the spring — suggesting homes will face a near-three per cent increase.
Labour had claimed at the election that energy bills would be £300 lower by the end of the decade.
Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho expressed concerns that bills are set to rise significantly under Ed Miliband’s net zero plans. She emphasized that current increases are already putting a strain on households, with further escalations expected in the future.
The development came as the PM set out his new year message — vowing to drive up living standards.
He said: “Until you can look forward and believe in the promise and the prosperity of Britain again, then this Government will fight for you.”
He added he would be focusing on “more cash in your pocket, wherever you live”.
But he has come under fire for the pledge — after Labour set out a £40billion tax raid in October’s Budget.
The implications of these rising costs will extend beyond just individual households. Workers may feel the impact through higher employers’ national insurance contributions, further exacerbating the financial burden on both employees and businesses. Additionally, the removal of winter fuel allowance for ten million seniors adds to the challenges faced by vulnerable demographics during the colder months.
Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride last night said: “Keir Starmer promised change, but the only thing he’s delivered is change for the worse.”
Sir Keir also said the 80th anniversaries of VE Day on May 8 and VJ Day on August 15 would help bring the nation together.
He added: “They will both be wonderful moments, to come together and do that generation proud.
