Starmer Addresses Cost of Living Amid Rising Diesel Prices Due to Iran Conflict
Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold a Downing Street briefing on Wednesday morning. He plans to address the cost of living and international tensions.
Domestic response and support measures
Starmer stressed his government’s duty to protect people at home and abroad. He said ministers are working with allies to de-escalate the crisis.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves told BBC Breakfast any help would target households by income. She declined to promise immediate measures for drivers.
Reeves warned that cutting fuel duty or VAT risks adding to inflation. She cited lessons from the Ukraine response, where support was unevenly distributed.
Political pressure and opposition proposals
Conservative shadow chancellor Mel Stride urged quicker action. He proposed reopening North Sea drilling and cutting bills by about £200.
Starmer said recent policies will reduce bills and raise low wages. He highlighted measures that cut the typical bill by £117.
Energy markets and price forecasts
Oil markets reacted after Tehran blocked tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The move has pushed global prices higher.
Ofgem’s energy price cap will fall by 7% from Wednesday. The cap will be £1,641, a reduction of £117 annually for a typical household.
Cornwall Insight now forecasts the cap at £1,929 for July to September. That prediction equals an £288 rise, or about 18%, on April levels.
Forecourt prices and consumer impact
| Fuel | Average (pence per litre) | Change since conflict began |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel | 182.8 | +40p |
| Petrol | 152.8 | +20p |
RAC data shows diesel at 182.8p per litre at UK pumps. Filling a 55-litre diesel car now costs about £100.52.
International statements and logistics
Former US president Donald Trump claimed some countries faced jet fuel shortages. He named the UK and posted on Truth Social.
Airlines UK rejected claims of fuel shortages. The industry body said supply was not as described on social media.
Trump urged nations to secure the Strait of Hormuz themselves. He suggested buying fuel from the United States as an alternative.
Diplomatic notes
Starmer linked de-escalation and reopening the Strait of Hormuz to easing household costs. He said calmer seas are vital for price relief.
Trump also announced a state visit by the King and Queen for April 27 to 30. The White House said he would address the US public on the conflict.
Filmogaz.com reporting: Starmer Addresses Cost of Living amid rising diesel prices tied to the Iran conflict remain central to government briefings.
