PM admits cost of living help is not enough and hints at further support

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has conceded that his administration's current initiatives to combat the cost of living crisis are not enough on their own. He suggested that additional support would be forthcoming, describing it as an "accumulation of smaller things" designed to collectively alleviate pressure on household budgets.

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I can accept criticism that this isn't enough, because I wouldn't say it's enough.

Burnham indicated a broader vision that includes an overhaul of train fares and increased "public control" over key utilities such as energy, water, and housing. However, he refrained from providing specific details on how these ambitious changes would be implemented. Since taking office, Burnham has introduced measures like removing VAT from domestic energy bills and expediting the end of "subscription traps."

Responding to criticism that his announced changes lack significant impact for struggling individuals, Burnham stated, "I can accept criticism that this isn't enough, because I wouldn't say it's enough." He emphasized his approach of implementing measures incrementally, "Just take that little bit of pressure off and address an issue that you know needs addressing. It's not the end of the story."

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But I take an approach to politics where I do what I can, when I can. Just take that little bit of pressure off and address an issue that you know needs addressing. "It's not the end of the story," he added.

Burnham believes that greater public control over essential services could lead to more substantial solutions for the cost of living crisis. He acknowledged the difficulty in reversing the privatization of water companies, a process that began in the 1980s, but affirmed his commitment to exploring viable options. Similarly, he expressed a desire to "remodel the rail fares" to maximize public benefit following the return of rail operators to public ownership.

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But very much, I'm looking at what can be done. Same with energy.

Chancellor John Healey has been tasked with examining further government actions on the cost of living for the upcoming Budget on October 28. Healey has pledged to prioritize this issue while maintaining "strong fiscal discipline," which may limit the scope of new spending. A major think tank has warned that Burnham might need to raise taxes or cut spending to fulfill his pledges on defense and cost of living support. Despite these fiscal constraints, Burnham remains committed to Labour's manifesto pledge not to increase taxes for working people.

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Healey has said it will be his "main focus".