Salisbury's MP urges new PM to 'act quickly' on cost of living help
John Glen says 'further help will be needed' to cope with rising energy bills
Salisbury's MP is calling on the new Prime Minister to 'act quickly to finalise plans for an urgent intervention' in the face of rising energy bills.
In his latest blog, John Glen says he's had plenty of emails for constituents and businesses asking what can be done to help with the increasing fees.
Our MP has revealed the cost of the support outlined by Government already totals £37 billion, but he wants to see more:
"To this point the Government has so far announced a series of direct payments – this has included help with council tax, additional winter fuel payments for pensioners, extra money for the disabled and those on means-tested benefits.
"The total cost of the payments announced so far is £37 billion and this will be paid for from taking money from the excess profits of big energy companies and from our taxes.
"However, the coming new price cap increase means further help will be needed."
John Glen, who gave up his role as Economic Secretary to the Treasury in the run-up to Boris Johnson's resignation, says local businesses in particular need support, as well as people who are struggling to meet ends meet, despite working:
"I am spending time this week reviewing various ideas before making representations on behalf of local businesses to Government to ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
"Government must use the tax revenues it stewards to provide as much support as possible. The priority must be those who cannot earn more and who face deep uncertainty and the fear of not being able to afford to heat their home. However, local businesses will also need help to get through this extremely challenging situation.
"I look forward to Parliament resuming on Monday so I am able to meet Ministers face to face and ensure that constituents’ concerns are heard.
"The new Prime Minister must act quickly to finalise plans for an urgent intervention so the new help can be set out to Parliament and the country."
Either Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak will be chosen as Prime Minister, with the result expected on Monday (5th September).