Labour leader criticises Autumn statement and tells us he's worried about energy prices
He's visited Tilbury in Essex and critiqued Tory policies laid out in the Chancellor's autumn statement and in the wake of an announced energy price surge
Labour Party leader Kier Starmer has voiced significant concerns regarding the Chancellor's Autumn Statement and the impending rise in energy prices.
The anticipated increase of £94 a year in household energy bills from January has prompted Starmer to emphasize the urgency for swift action by the ruling conservative party.
The regulatory body, Ofgem, attributes this surge to heightened international wholesale energy prices, influenced by market instability and global events, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Recognizing the financial strain this poses on many households, Ofgem Chief Executive Jonathan Brearley stated, "This rise is a result of the wholesale cost of gas and electricity rising, which needs to be reflected in the price that we all pay." Brearley has urged energy suppliers to identify and assist those struggling with escalating bills.
Sir Kier Starmer, told us he shares these concerns, stating, "The increase in energy bills is a real cause for concern because many people are already struggling."
He's calling for immediate government intervention and emphasized the crucial need for a comprehensive, long-term strategy to reduce reliance on the international market and ensure sustainable energy prices.
In the wake of the Chancellor's autumn statement, Sir Kier has chosen to stress the tangible impact on everyday people. He told us that with the imminent energy price surge and the ongoing economic challenges during the 'cost of living crisis', many working individuals and families find themselves grappling with ever increasing challenges.
"We need policies that not only address the immediate concerns, such as energy price hikes but also provide a stable and sustainable economic foundation for the future."
Addressing criticism of the Autumn Statement, The Chancellor has said it is "going to take time" to reduce the overall tax burden - but that national insurance reductions and savings for businesses have 'made a start'.
However, Sir Kier has asserted: "While prioritizing long-term competitiveness is crucial, we cannot afford to compromise essential public services. The government's fiscal strategy must strike a delicate balance between economic growth and safeguarding the well-being of our citizens."
"We need policies that support our economic standing while ensuring the welfare of our citizens remains a top priority."