In his latest column, High Peak MP Robert Largan calls for the next Prime Minister to clamp down on the rising cost of living.

Over the past couple of months, with Parliament in recess, I have enjoyed spending time in High Peak, knocking on doors and listening to local residents.

Rising energy bills are, understandably, the biggest concern of local people. Clearly, the next Prime Minister’s top priority must be to clamp down on the rising cost of living.

Since January, I have publicly called on the Government to improve our energy security and provide more support for households and businesses hit by higher costs.

I have also regularly met with ministers to discuss the concerns of businesses in High Peak and I have used my voice in Parliament to make the case for more support in the short term to help households hit by rising energy bills.

Last month, I put forward a policy proposal which would cut fuel costs and carbon emissions, whilst boosting UK food production. This would be achieved through repurposing land currently used to grow crops for cars to produce food for people.

I also campaigned successfully to get VAT removed from all home insulation materials in the last Budget.

I have repeatedly called on the next Prime Minister to be honest with the British people about the tough choices ahead, bear down on inflation, and cut the cost of energy bills.

In October, the energy price cap is due to rise 65 per cent. This could see household bills increase to around £3,240 per year – rising again in January.

Inflation is also at the highest level in 40 years, hitting 10.1 per cent in the 12 months to July, and forecasts predict further rises ahead.

Inflation hits those on fixed and lower incomes hardest, stripping away the value of the pounds in their pockets.

The Government has already put forward a package of support to mitigate some of these price rises, with one-third of households set to receive £1,200 each.

Every household on means-tested benefits will also receive a £650 cost of living payment; pensioners in receipt of Winter Fuel Payment will receive an extra £300; those receiving disability benefit will receive a £150 cost of living payment.

Over the coming weeks, Derbyshire County Council will also issue a £100 voucher to 23,000 residents across the county to help with the cost of living, as part of the Government’s Household Support Fund.

You may also be entitled to an emergency cash payment from the Council. For further information, please call 01629 533399.

Clearly, further measures are needed to help people through this difficult period. I will continue to make the case to the Government for other areas where we can help people struggling with rising bills.

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