Government has got it all Wonga

FOR many families across Britain the story is the same.

Bills up. Shopping costs more. Purse strings pulled ever tighter.

The Government had a chance to take action on the cost of living crisis but millions are still worrying and struggling with their bills.

In January a record number of people were wrestling with fuel debts.

As the chief executive of Money Buddies debt advice in Leeds warned: “I’ve been involved in debt advice for 26 years. This is the worst I’ve ever seen it.”

And what did the Government do? Simply offer a buy now, pay later scheme that loads up costs for tomorrow. High prices, as far as the eye can see, for years.

And most of the plan is not even coming in till October.

The Wonga Chancellor is giving with one hand now, to take it all back later.

Labour’s plan to keep people’s bills low would impose a one-off windfall tax on the excess profits of North Sea oil and gas producers, who have made a fortune through this spike in prices.

It cuts VAT on home energy bills to 0%, as part of a package saving most households £200, with extra targeted support taking £600 in total off the bills of those who need it most.

Under the Government’s plan, low income households will still see a minimum rise of £334 on energy bills. With Labour’s plan, low and middle-income households would see a rise of just £93.

Britain is uniquely exposed to the global gas crisis after a decade of dither and delay from the Tories. They have no plans to cut bills or tackle our insecure energy market.

One thing last week taught us – it’s Labour that’s focused on bringing prosperity and security to families across Britain.