Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi: 'We must work together in face of rising energy prices'

Nadhim Zahawi has said that people in the UK must “work together in a spirit of unity” in the face of rising energy prices.

The chancellor made the remarks despite the UK Government’s refusal to set out any further financial support for households until a new prime minister is announced.

On Friday, Ofgem confirmed that the energy price cap would be rising by 80% in October.

It means that the average annual household bill for gas and electricity will soar to £3,549.

The Government had been urged to freeze the energy cap rise, but the action was ruled out by both Conservative leadership contenders Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak.

No 10 has already ruled out further financial measures for people struggling in the UK until either Truss or Sunak enters office on September 6.

Zahawi met with representatives from the energy sector at No 11 Downing Street alongside Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier this month.

Johnson has stated that the Government will announce “extra cash” for households in September.

On Friday, the chancellor told broadcasters that “we should all look at our energy consumption” amidst the crisis.

Zahawi pledged that he had been “working flat out” to ensure the next prime minister can deliver support to those who need it most.

“I know that today’s energy price cap announcement will be causing stress and worry for many people,” he said.

“Direct support is on its way, including the second instalment of the £650 cost of living payment for vulnerable households, extra help for pensioners and those with disabilities, and the £400 energy bills discount.

“In the face of rising energy prices, driven by Putin’s brutal and illegal war in Ukraine, we must work together in a spirit of unity.

“That is why I have sat down individually with some of the UKs largest energy companies this week to make sure that we are doing all we can to help people.

“And I’ve been working flat out to make sure that the new prime minister can deliver support to those who need it most, as soon as possible.”