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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Business
Sam Barker

Martin Lewis slams 'zombie Government' as soaring energy bills to leave many destitute

MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis has urged the "zombie Government" to take action now on energy bills set to top £4,200 a year.

Earlier today analysts at Cornwall Insight say the average energy bill will rise from £1,971 to £3,582 a year from October 2022 and then to £4,266 a year from January 2023.

Lewis took to Twitter to say households need energy bill help now - not when the new Prime Minister is announced on September 5.

Lewis said: "Tragic news. The latest @CornwallInsight prediction, based on Ofgem's new methodology, is an 81% price cap rise in Oct (taking typical bill to £3,582/yr) and a further 19% in Jan (so £4,266/yr).

"Action & planning is needed now. The zombie govt needs wake up sooner than 5 Sept...

"This will leave many destitute. Tax cuts won't help poorest incl many elderly & disabled who've higher usage."

Liz Truss today repeatedly refused to promise new cost-of-living payments for Brits despite a “terrifying” rise in energy bills this winter.

Lewis spoke out about the soaring cost of living (PA)

Energy bills are set to rise in October when the energy regulator Ofgem updates its price cap.

This cap restricts how much homes on variable-rate energy deals, paying by direct debit, will shell out for their gas and electricity.

It works by setting a limit on the rates a supplier can charge for each unit of gas and electricity you use.

It is reviewed four times a year - every January, April, July and October.

Around 80% of homes are on price-capped deals and currently pay around £1,971 a year for their energy.

The most positive predictions for energy price rises in October are from Ofgem.

Ofgem chief executive Jonathan Brearley has said the October price cap will be "in the region of £2,800" - although this comment was made back in May.

What energy bill help is available?

Talk to your energy bill provider as soon as possible if you can't pay your bill - they might be able to put you on a payment plan or offer some sort of tailored support.

It's also worth asking them if you're definitely on their cheapest deal.

All the big energy firms have charitable hardship funds and grants that you may be eligible for if you’re struggling.

For example, the British Gas Energy Trust can be accessed by anyone - not just its customers - providing you meet the eligibility criteria.

If you’re over the state pension age, you may be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment scheme, worth between £100 and £300 during the winter months.

Boris Johnson faces pressure to recall Parliament over the deepening cost of living crisis.

The Prime Minister and the Chancellor were criticised last week for being "missing in action" as the Bank of England warned of skyrocketing inflation and a recession.

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