I know many people and businesses in East Devon are concerned about the cost of living. I was really pleased to see further support announced by the new Prime Minister.

Putin’s invasion is having a huge impact on the cost of living in East Devon. It is absolutely right to deliver support for households ahead of this winter.

The Energy Price Guarantee will ensure that a typical household pays an average £2,500 a year on their energy bill, for the next 2 years, from October 1st 2022.

As already announced earlier this year, the £400 off energy bills for everyone will still be paid. This automatic, non-repayable discount will be applied in six instalments between October 2022 and March 2023.

A household on typical use will see an average 6.5% rise in energy bills from October. Under the price cap, that would have been an 80% rise.

In addition, if you are on means-tested benefits, you are entitled to an extra £650. If you are a pensioner, you are entitled to an extra £300 payment which will be paid as an automatic top-up to the Winter Fuel Payment.

Not everyone will be eligible for the schemes outlined above – especially those living in park homes, or who use heating oil in rural areas in East Devon. In such instances, there will be a discretionary fund to help get support out to everyone. I promise to help any household in East Devon who needs assistance once this support is available.

I also know from conversations with many local high street businesses how much concern there is. They will get support too, which is incredibly important given the jobs they provide in our communities.

Businesses – like shops, pubs, restaurants, cafés, and hotels – will see their energy costs capped for six months at the same price per unit that households will pay. After those six months the government will provide further support for vulnerable sectors, such as hospitality – including local pubs. I will continue to help any businesses in East Devon as this support scheme is rolled out.