'Government right to help people during cost of living crisis' - MP - The Droitwich Standard

'Government right to help people during cost of living crisis' - MP

Droitwich Editorial 28th May, 2022   0

Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston’s Westminster Diary.

AS THE war in Ukraine continues, I am cautiously optimistic about the progress of the Ukrainian armed forces in repelling Russian forces whilst also managing to evacuate soldiers and civilians from Mariupol.

The impact of the crisis continues to be felt across the world, including here.

The price of grain has soared in recent months, with over 20million tonnes stranded in Ukraine silos. The price of gas continues to be a challenge and many nations seek to urgently divest themselves of Russian supplies. The knock-on effect is higher food costs, higher energy costs, and higher prices at the petrol pumps.




It is right the Government responds and it has already started by providing over £22billion in support to date including a £150 council tax rebate for Band A to D households and £200 off energy bills. The support package also includes a further £144m for local councils to support the most deprived households.

The Government has also increased the National Living Wage to £9.50 per hour, reduced the Universal Credit Taper Rate putting an average extra £1,000 in the pockets of 2million families. Fuel Duty has been frozen for the 12th year in a row (saving motorists £1,900 since 2010) and the TV Licence Fee has been frozen.


For youngsters there is support with healthy meals over the holidays via the Ready Steady Worcestershire Scheme. Key Stage 1 children in most Worcestershire schools are eligible for free school meals until Key Stage 2.

Those struggling with the cost of living can get help and support.

Local councillors and I will always do whatever I can to support you with navigating the system based on your individual circumstances.

As we go forwards, it is important we build a system that supports people and reduces barriers to getting on in life and work.

The unemployment rate is at its lowest since 1974 and for the first time ever, there are more job vacancies in the UK than there are people to fill them.

The new session of parliament started with the Queen’s speech delivered by Prince Charles in The Queen’s absence.

It highlighted nearly 40 laws the Government intends to bring in over the next year and I will provide further information on many of these in future updates.

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