The Institute for Fiscal Studies reports that average inflation reached 9% in the year to April, but that the poorest households faced inflation rates of 10.9%. This is 3% higher than inflation rates for the richest decile. Energy is hitting lower-income households particularly hard.

"Energy price rises are disproportionately hitting poorer households. The poorest households spend 11% of their total household budget on gas and electricity, compared to 4% for the richest households."

Energy prices increased by 70% in the year to April, a rate of increase not seen for more than 30 years. Ofgem figures imply that for an average household this means an increase in gas and electricity bills of nearly £60 per month.