“I am not trying to claim we have solved the entire problem for everyone… no government could”
The main fiscal news last week came on Thursday, when the Chancellor made an announcement to the House of Commons on a Cost of Living Support package, aimed at helping households struggling with soaring prices.
The £15bn support measures mean that almost all of the eight million most vulnerable households will receive at least £1,200 in one-off support, with all domestic electricity customers receiving at least £400.
The key measure unveiled include:
In addition, as highly anticipated, a windfall tax on gas and oil giants was announced. The new Energy Profits Levy is expected to raise £5bn in revenue over the next year. The new 25% surcharge on the extraordinary profits from the oil and gas sector takes the tax rate on North Sea profits from 40% to 65%. Mr Sunak said the tax will be temporary and will be phased out when energy prices return to “historically more normal levels.”
The Chancellor commented, “I am not trying to claim we have solved the entire problem for everyone… no government could, but I hope that when people hear the significant steps we are taking… they will feel some of the burden eased, some of the pressures lifted.”
Reactions to the measures
Chair of the Treasury Select Committee Mel Stride welcomed the announcement, likening it to the measures introduced during the pandemic, describing it as “a very significant intervention.”
Commenting on the measures, Paul Johnson Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies said, “Rishi Sunak has announced a genuinely big package of support for households. On average the poorest households will now be approximately compensated for the rising cost of living this year. Put these benefit increases alongside the tax rises just implemented, and Mr Sunak is engaging in some serious redistribution from rich to poor – albeit against a backdrop of rising inequality.”
In other news… bunting at the ready!
With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations about to kick off marked by a four-day weekend, early indications show the country-wide celebrations will bring a much-needed boost to the economy.
Over five million Britons are planning a UK break over the long weekend, bringing an estimated £1.2bn boost to the economy. According to a VisitEngland survey at least 19 million people are planning to take part in celebrations including eating out, street parties and watching events on outdoor screens. Chief Executive of VisitEngland Patricia Yates said, “The long weekend is set to bring a much-needed boost to the industry and destinations as the summer season gets underway. From afternoon teas and street parties to beacon lighting ceremonies, pageants and parades, people are set to celebrate with friends and neighbours in royal style.”
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All details are correct at time of writing (1 June 2022)