Grant Shapps has suggested the way poverty is presented can be “somewhat misleading” when put to him that rising bills could push 400,000 more children into poverty.
Speaking on Sky News’ Ridge on Sunday programme, the transport secretary admitted that rising costs of living are “very substantial”, but questioned estimates of how many people could be plunged into severe difficulty.
“I don’t want to sort of get us lost in numbers here, but poverty is divided into both absolute and relative (poverty), and sometimes the way it’s presented can be somewhat misleading to say the least,” he said.
“I do not mean to in any way, shape or form underplay it because you don’t have to be an expert – you just look at the cost of living, as you mentioned, the increase in inflation… it’s very substantial.
“And that’s why the chancellor’s already come forward with £22bn.”
Rising living costs ‘very substantial’
Mr Shapps also hinted that more support to ease the burden of rising household bills could be forthcoming, adding that “given the chancellor’s record, I’m sure he’ll always be looking what else he can do” to help.
Read more: Pensioner rising buses to keep warm
The minister’s comments came as shadow business secretary Jonathan Reynolds admitted he is “angry” at the cost of living crisis.
Mr Reynolds also alleged that the “average pub or hairdresser” would be up to £3,000 better off if Labour were in government and handling the situation.
Labour has called on the government to do more to ease the burden of rising bills
“The cost of living is extreme, the government isn’t doing enough, and people would be better off under Labour,” he told Sky News’ Ridge on…
Source : skynews
