Liz Truss promised to take a 'hands on' approach to dealing with the energy crisis during her first speech as Prime Minister. Speaking at a podium outside 10 Downing Street, just after 5pm today (Tuesday September 6) the new prime minister admitted that soaring energy bills are one of her 'three early priorities'.
Earlier today, it was reported that Ms Truss is thought to be drawing up plans for a freeze in bills - which could cost around £100 billion. She did not confirm these plans during her speech but said that she would "take action this week". She did not offer any detail on how she plans to help bill payers. Ms Truss added that 'growing the economy' and 'making sure that people can get doctor's appointments' are her other two early priorities.
Addressing the nation, she said: "As Prime Minister, I will pursue three early priorities. Firstly, I will get Britain working again.
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"I have a bold plan to grow the economy through tax cuts and reform. I will cut taxes to reward hard work and boost business-led growth and investment.
"I will drive reform in my mission to get the United Kingdom working, building and growing. We'll get spades in the ground to make sure people are not facing unaffordable energy bills and we will also make sure that we are building hospitals, roads, schools and broadband.
"Secondly, I will deal hands on with the energy crisis caused by Putin's war. I will take action this week to deal with energy bills and secure our future energy supply.
"Thirdly, I will make sure that people can get doctor's appointments and the NHS services they need. We will put our health service on a firm footing.
"By delivering on the economy, on energy and on the NHS, we will put our nation on the path to long term success.
"We shouldn't be daunted by the challenges we face. As strong as this storm may be, I know the British people are stronger.
"Our country was built by people who get things done. We have huge reserves of talent, energy and determination. I am confident that together we can ride out the storm, we can rebuild our economy and we can become the modern, brilliant Britain that I know we can be.
"This is our vital mission to ensure opportunity and prosperity for all people and future generations. I am determined to deliver."
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