Starmer: hard to assess what energy support needed in winter

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that it remains difficult to assess the extent of energy support required for households over the coming winter, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global energy markets. Speaking before an emergency Cobra meeting, Starmer emphasized that the government is examining all available measures to mitigate the cost-of-living impact, particularly for the most vulnerable households according to government statements.

Starmer noted that while the current energy price cap will remain in place until the end of June, the focus is shifting to the subsequent period, when energy consumption typically rises. He highlighted that the period from June to September/October accounts for only about 77% of household energy use, with the heaviest demand occurring later in the year as energy data shows. This suggests that any support measures may be phased in as the energy price cap is reviewed in the autumn.

The government is considering targeted, means-tested support rather than a universal bailout, a departure from previous approaches such as the £40bn package introduced during the Ukraine crisis according to policy analysis. Starmer also mentioned the possibility of granting the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) additional powers to prevent profiteering amid volatile energy prices as officials have reported.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to provide further details on Tuesday regarding the government's strategy to secure energy supplies and address the economic impact of the crisis according to official statements. However, no specific support packages for consumers have been announced at this stage. The government remains cautious, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the duration of the conflict and its financial implications.