A government minister "didn't have time" to discuss the ongoing cost of living crisis on Good Morning Britain.
The Good Morning Britain team discussed the crippling inflation rates on energy bills and mortgages expected to rise over the upcoming months. Joining them was the Deputy Chief Executive of Money Buddies, Saleem Shafi, who said he's seen a 400% increase in the number of people needing help from his charity.
Money Buddies is a charity that sets out to help those struggling financially and to offer advice on budgeting and repayments. A government minister was also supposed to join the show to answer questions on inflation along with the government's response but they were a no-show.
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After showing viewers an empty seat, presenter Ben Shephard declared the Minister wouldn't be joining them. He said: "The government is facing criticism for being absent in a time of crisis and we did invite a minister on to the show this morning. From everything we've heard from chatting to Shaleem, they didn't want to turn up. They didn't have time for us in their busy schedule
"If there are any ministers out there that would be willing to answer some of those questions... we heard from Shaleem just how brutal it is for him and the people who haven't eaten for four days as they're trying to pay their bills.
"It would be nice to have a Minister come in and answer some of those questions and maybe put our minds to rest and offer some sort of hope but if they don't we can't see that, can we."
Co-host Charlotte Hawkins reiterated later in the show that the MP wasn't met with unforeseen circumstances and that it was simply because they "didn't have time". She said: "We were told they didn't have time for us in their busy schedule. If there are any ministers watching and would like to get in touch to answer these questions then please do as I'm sure it's something everyone could benefit from."
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