Financial guru Martin Lewis has called on Boris Johnson's Government to do more to help those on lower incomes as the cost of living continues to rise. The Money Saving Expert founder worries the poorest in society could face the choice between 'freezing and starving'.
But, in an hour-long edition of his Martin Lewis Money Show, the guru revealed he had been speaking to Chancellor Rishi Sunak to see how more people could be helped. It comes as daily costs such as fuel and grocery bills have carried on increasing.
And Ofgem warns bills could rise even further in October. The current energy price cap is due to shoot up again before dropping slightly in 12 months' time.
Mr Lewis has now revealed he has asked the Chancellor to do more, fearing those without savings could be facing tough choices as living costs spiral. He said: "I was on the phone to the Chancellor yesterday. And I was pushing very hard because I'm very worried about people making the choice between freezing and starving.
"They absolutely are aware of those difficulties. £165 billion of extra savings were built up during the pandemic, those savings were for a rainy day and the truth is, it's raining.
"People who have the savings are expected to use it, those who have the resilience are expected to use it. My concern is those who don't have the resilience.
"Help is needed. And I think there will be more help coming, I don't know how big it will be."
The financial expert did not say what help would be available or when. But, in a bid to combat increased costs, the Government has already offered a £150 council tax rebate.
However, the Conservative Party last week rejected calls to hold an emergency budget. An amendment to the Queen's Speech at the state opening of Parliament pressed Mr Sunak to produce a new series of measures to combat the living cost.
Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "Inflation has hit its highest level for 40 years. Every pound that people had last year can only purchase 91 pence worth of goods today. That’s what inflation of 9% means.
"Our country had a cost-of-living crisis and a growth crisis, prices rising, growth downgraded and no plan for the future."
A motion to cut the VAT amount from 20% was also rejected by MPs. Lib Dem leader Ed Davey said: “Cutting VAT would put money straight back into people’s pockets, and the Chancellor could do it at the stroke of a pen."
