Sir Keir Starmer has stated that the public must be supported with energy bills heading into winter, following the collapse of the ceasefire between the US and Iran, which threatens to push prices higher. Speaking at the Nato summit in Ankara, Turkey, the Prime Minister declined to specify the shape of any support package, which would be determined by his successor, but indicated that one would be necessary to address the fallout from the Iran crisis.
Ceasefire Collapse and Energy Implications
The ceasefire between the US and Iran collapsed this week, with Tehran attacking vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and America carrying out retaliatory strikes. US President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire “over” at the Nato summit and threatened further strikes against Iran. The renewed hostilities risk disrupting shipping through the Gulf channel, complicating efforts to secure a permanent end to the conflict that began on February 28.
Such disruption is likely to lead to higher energy bills worldwide as oil prices rise due to supply problems. Starmer emphasized that international affairs would determine the extent of support needed, noting that maintaining and implementing the ceasefire to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would have a greater impact on energy bills this winter than any government action.
Starmer's Comments on Support
“It is important that people are supported, particularly as we go into the winter months, but the extent of that is to be determined,” Starmer told reporters. He added that the situation depends on whether the ceasefire can be resumed and effectively implemented, which would open the Strait of Hormuz and make a bigger difference to energy bills than anything else the government can do.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come as households face potential increases in energy costs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The conflict, launched by the US and Israel, has already caused volatility in global energy markets.
