PM Starmer to Unveil Major Energy Bill Support Package
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to hold a significant press conference at 10:30am, where he will announce targeted support for British families grappling with soaring energy bills, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The intervention comes amid fears that Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could further inflate costs, impacting households across the UK.
Targeted Aid for Heating Oil Users
In a move worth tens of millions of pounds, the PM will unveil plans to assist households reliant on heating oil, a group not protected by Ofgem's energy price cap. This follows warnings from MPs in rural areas, where constituents face fuel poverty due to sharp price increases since the war began. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed over the weekend that funding has been secured to support these vulnerable consumers.
Crackdown on Energy Firm Exploitation
During his speech, Mr Starmer will issue a stern warning to energy suppliers accused of cancelling orders and jacking up prices. He is expected to state: “I will not tolerate companies trying to exploit this crisis to make money from working people… If the companies have broken the law, there will be legal action.” Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has pledged to intervene against unfair practices, particularly those affecting home heating oil customers.
International Tensions and UK Response
The press conference will also address growing international pressures, including demands from US President Donald Trump for Royal Navy warships to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil and gas route blockaded by Tehran. While the UK is not expected to deploy ships, it is considering sending mine-hunting drones from the Royal Navy's Mine and Threat Exploitation Group, already stationed in the region. Officials are also exploring the use of interceptor drones, previously supplied to Ukraine, against Iranian aerial threats.
Political and Diplomatic Developments
Mr Starmer spoke with President Trump on Sunday evening, discussing the importance of reopening the Strait to end global shipping disruptions. However, hopes for a ceasefire have deteriorated after Trump rejected Iran's plea for a deal, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denying any request for negotiations. Domestically, the PM faces calls to scrap a planned fuel duty hike in September, amid spiralling energy costs, with Mr Miliband hinting at possible reconsideration.
Leadership and Opposition Criticism
In his address, Mr Starmer will criticise political opponents Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage, accusing them of advocating for rushed military involvement without a clear plan. He will emphasise a firm stance on British interests, stating: “My leadership is about standing firm for the British interest. No matter the pressure.” Meanwhile, DWP Secretary Pat McFadden described Trump's approach as “transactional,” but expressed confidence in the enduring UK-US relationship.
As the conflict continues, the PM aims to reassure the public that his top priority is mitigating the cost of living crisis, with further updates expected during the live press conference.
