A RISE in energy bills has piled pressure on Sir Keir Starmer to protect pensioners this winter.
Typical household heating costs will go up by £149 in October after Ofgem yesterday raised the annual price cap by ten per cent to £1,717.
Experts warned it could push many pensioners into a “heating or eating” crisis after ministers axed Winter Fuel Payments (WFP) for ten million seniors.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said last month the help worth up to £300 would now be means-tested.
Those living on more than just £12,600 a year will not receive the support.
Derek Lickorish, of energy supplier Utilita, said: “There’ll be pensioners who fall through the cracks making the choice between heating or eating.”
Energy minister Miatta Fahnbulleh will meet energy suppliers next week, saying firms should take steps to stop customers falling into debt.
In a letter to companies, she said: “It is vital they are given the support by their suppliers.”
It appeared to rule out any further government help. But the Tories hope to hold a debate in the Commons about the WFP.
Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho said: “Because Labour weren’t honest, millions of pensioners will have no plans to deal with higher energy bills.”
Meanwhile, Ofgem is reviewing the standing charge system, which bills customers regardless if they use any power or not.
