Sadiq Khan said he has been wearing a gilet to keep his heating bills down
(Picture: PA)London mayor Sadiq Khan has been wearing a gilet to keep his heating bills down, along with several other measures to curb soaring costs.
Speaking after a public Q&A session about the cost of living crisis, with money saving expert Martin Lewis on Thursday, Mr Khan said he had been following the cash guru’s tips in his own home.
“My focus has been on Londoners, but one of the things I've done is follow the advice from Martin Lewis,” Mr Khan said. “Simple things we can all do to reduce our [energy] consumption.
“Making sure the lights are switched off, making sure if there are rooms that aren't being used, simple things [are being done] like turning the dials [down], the central heating off, wearing three layers rather than two.
“People will have noticed that I often wear a gilet - [there's a] good reason for that."
When it comes to the plight of people across London, Mr Khan said he was especially concerned about rising rents and energy prices.
“When rents are going up by more than 16 per cent over the last year, more and more Londoners are renting, that causes me real concern.”
He was especially worried about energy price changes in April - when government support for businesses will be reduced.
But he also wanted Londoners to be aware of the support available.
“It’s really important that people understand that not only are there great advisors, whether it’s Citizens Advice or law centres, or Martin Lewis, but also there are things they can do to support themselves and their families.”
Among the measures suggested by Martin Lewis at the Thursday event were ensuring curtains are open when it's sunny and closed when it's not, as well as taking the time to check for benefits eligibility.
“If you have family income under £40,000 a year, go onto an online benefits calculator and check if you’re entitled to any benefits,” said Mr Lewis.
“I’m not saying you will be - there will be many people in those circumstances who aren’t - but I’m looking at ‘At what point is it worth investing ten minutes of my time to go onto a benefits calculator?’”
