Labour MP admits energy cap increase is a 'disappointing issue': 'Very difficult challenges'

The energy price cap increase will see annual bills rise by £111 for typical households.

From April 1, the new cap will set typical annual energy costs at £1,849.

Hanson told GB News: “It's a difficult issue and it's a disappointing issue for Government.

“But what we're trying to do, and what Ed Miliband this morning has done, is announce support for the poorest people in the community by announcing a £150 support mechanism for around six million people later this year, and that will, I hope, help ameliorate against the difficulties that many people face.

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“The Government has taken an awful lot of measures to help support people with the cost-of-living crisis, and what will happen with the energycap and the measures that have been announced today is there is additional help and support for around 6 million people.

“There are very difficult challenges with energy.

"The Ukraine war particularly has been a major impact on energy prices, and what we have to try and do is to ensure that we support those who are most vulnerable, and that's what this government is trying to do.

“We have to look at long-term issues...and long-term issues mean we have to transition from fossil fuel to renewable sources, and that's what the Government is trying to do through solar, through wind and through other sources, and long-term planning on nuclear.

“This Government's been in office for just over seven months.

“We have to take measures to ensure that we have sustainable long term energy sources, and long-term energy means renewable, solar, wind power and others, as well as the long-term nuclear, which is going to take a long time to achieve.

“We are trying to support the most vulnerable. The £150 announced this morning by the Energy Secretary is an important contribution.

“But make no mistake, it is very challenging times.”

He acknowledged the significant impact of external factors on energy prices.

"The Ukraine war particularly has been a major impact on energy prices," Lord Hanson explained.

The Government's focus remains on ensuring "we support those who are most vulnerable".