ANDY Burnham blamed Donald Trump’s Iran War for rising prices yesterday — as Brits were warned of more pain to come.
The PM added that he would do “what I can” to help struggling families.
PM Andy Burnham blamed Donald Trump’s Iran War for rising prices Credit: AFP
Burnham admits the UK cannot control how events in the Middle East impact the UK Credit: AFP
Inflation jumped from 2.6 to 2.9 per cent last month — its highest level since March.
It came after Ofgem’s energy price cap rose 13 per cent, adding £221 to a typical annual gas and electricity bill.
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Energy experts at Cornwall Insight predict bills will rise another four per cent in October as wholesale costs remain high.
Some economists have warned inflation could climb as high as 3.5 per cent by Christmas.
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Mr Burnham said: “We can’t control what is going on in the Middle East, and the effect of the conflict there is now being felt in inflation here.
“But I will do what I can to help people.”
The inflation warning came as the PM told The Times Britain was “not set up for growth”.
He said his new No 10 North operation in Manchester will take the lead on driving growth, while Chancellor John Healey and the Treasury focus on controlling the public finances.
Former Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane, who has advised Mr Burnham on economic policy, called for a freeze on further tax rises for the rest of Parliament.
Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride said: “Labour’s tax rises and business bashing have driven the cost of living higher and higher, yet Andy Burnham refuses to rule out yet more tax hikes at the Budget.”
4% fare rise
TRAIN fares in England could rise by more than four per cent next year.
The potential hike is based on Retail Prices Index inflation hitting 3.2 per cent in July.
Last year’s 4.6 per cent cap was one percentage point above RPI in July 2024.
If the same formula is used, the cost of the 45 per cent of fares that are state regulated will jump 4.2 per cent.
The Government said: “No decision has been made. We are working to make transport affordable for all.”
