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Boris Johnson’s government is set to announce new measures to help with rising energy bills within the next month.
Ministers across government have now concluded that “something needs to be done” on energy bills ahead of a 1 April rise, although they have not yet determined what form this assistance will take.
This means the Treasury has effectively accepted that additional funds will be needed, although they remain reluctant to shell out large amounts of cash on an ongoing basis after massive spending during the pandemic.
The prime minister will personally take part in meetings on the energy crisis next week, Sky News has been told.
More: Tory MPs urge PM to scrap energy taxes as bills rocket
An announcement on the eventual decision is expected on or before 7 February, the date that energy watchdog Ofgem will announce the scale of the rise in the price cap which will be in place from April to September.
This is expected to be an increase of around £600 a year, from £1,277 to annual bills in excess of £1,877.
It will signal an increase in energy bills for at least 15 million households which will then come into force just under two months later.
“It would be ideal if we could announce something before 7 February,” said a government source.
“Ministers are acutely aware of the 1 April issue.”
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Is there a solution to soaring energy bills?
Minsters are grappling with various options, likely to target the less well-off.
Mr Johnson has already indicated he does not favour financial assistance for those deemed able to afford a big price rise, suggesting a cut in VAT on energy is off the table.
“No options here are perfect,” one government…
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Source : skynews
