Broadcasting House Oil shock: What can government do to help cost of living?
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Mar 15, 2026 Martin McCluskey, Labour MP and Minister for Consumers, outlines government plans on energy and cost-of-living relief. He discusses targeted support for heating oil users and a forthcoming crisis and resilience fund. The conversation also covers UK responses to Strait of Hormuz tensions and measures to accelerate clean power like plug-in solar.
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Heating Oil Order Cancelled After Price Spike
- A Derbyshire listener, Keith, described buying 650 litres of heating oil for £401 then seeing his daughter’s 1,000-litre order confirmed but later cancelled by the supplier.
- Keith suspects firms are profiteering amid volatile international oil prices, leaving vulnerable neighbours unable to afford heating oil.
Government Promises Targeted Heating Oil Support
- Martin McCluskey said government support will target heating oil users and details of a crisis fund will be announced within days.
- He framed this as part of the government's wider cost-of-living mission alongside the energy price cap protections.
Buy Plug In Solar To Cut Bills Quickly
- Martin McCluskey recommended accelerating small-scale clean tech like plug-in solar as an accessible way to cut bills, estimating about £110 saved per unit.
- He linked this to the government's £15bn warm homes plan offering grants and loans for wider upgrades.