UK chancellor considers over 1bn pounds to help lower energy bills

The British chancellor, John Healey, is considering a major intervention to reduce energy bills for poorer households in the upcoming budget. According to the Guardian, ministers grew concerned after forecasts indicated that customer bills could increase by hundreds of pounds in January. [1]

The Guardian reported that officials are currently drafting plans to spend more than 1bn pounds to assist energy consumers. The bulk of this funding is expected to go towards direct support for vulnerable households. [1]

Government officials are also examining radical changes to alter the maximum amounts that energy companies are permitted to charge their customers, according to the Guardian. [1]

The title of chancellor traces back to the Late Latin word cancellarius, which originally referred to a secretary or usher positioned behind screens in ancient Roman court halls. [3]