GPs could prescribe money off energy bills under Treasury plan
GPs could write prescriptions for money off energy bills for the most vulnerable under a plan drawn up by the Treasury, as Liz Truss’s team signalled more help with costs now forecast to top £6,000 next year.
The unusual proposal would mean people could consult their doctor for an assessment on whether they are struggling enough to require help with their bills.
The idea first reported in the Sun on Sunday was dismissed by the shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, saying the Conservatives “have lost the plot on the cost of living crisis and haven’t got a clue about the level of pressure on the NHS”. It would probably be resisted by overstretched doctors.
It comes as the latest forecasts from energy consultants Auxilione suggested energy prices could go above £6,000 a year for the average household next year. Ofgem, the regulator, is expected to lift the price cap from £1,971 to £3,576 this week.
Truss, the frontrunner to enter No 10 next month, hinted in an interview with the Sun on Sunday that she was prepared to support people with soaring bills, after having previously said she did not favour handouts. She said every government “has to look at making sure life is affordable for people” and she’s looking at help “across the board”, including businesses.
In comments that suggest she may give targeted support to the lowest paid and tax cuts for others, the foreign secretary said she would not “reach first for the handout” before looking at the causes of rocketing energy bills. She said: “What I really object to is taking money off people in tax and then giving them the money back in benefits. That doesn’t make sense to me.
“So that’s why I support keeping taxes low, getting the economy going, growing our economy, dealing
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