Date: 3 September 2026 Tags: Energy, Cost of Living, UK Economy, Iran Summary: UK households face potentially higher winter energy bills as European countries seek to replenish depleted natural gas reserves. European wholesale gas prices exceeded €75/MWh, their highest level since late 2022. UK gas prices surpassed 185p per therm this week, also reaching their highest since late 2022. Renewed US-Iran fighting has increased concerns that disruption to the Strait of Hormuz will

Date: 3 September 2026 Tags: UK Economy, Cost of Living, Regional Inequality, Politics Summary: A PwC report found 46% of Britons live where economic growth is not translating into improved living standards. Every region in northern England, the Midlands and Wales recorded spending power below the UK average. Yorkshire and the Humber was £1,917 below the average annual household disposable income of £23,371. Wales was £1,754 below average, while the North East was £1,542 belo

Date: 26 August 2026 Tags: Energy, Cost of Living, Politics, Economy Summary: Ofgem has confirmed the household energy price cap will rise by 4% from October 1. The typical annual bill will increase by £60, from £1,663 to £1,723, through the end of December. Shadow Environment Secretary Victoria Atkins accused Labour of breaking promises to reduce household energy costs. Atkins said rising bills could create particular difficulties for rural households dependent on heating oi