Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will provide backdated support for businesses struggling with high energy bills.

We recognise that many businesses are exposed to increased energy costs, driven by global factors.

On 8 September the Government announced a new six-month scheme for businesses and other non-domestic energy users (including charities and public sector organisations like schools). This is a temporary, time-limited measure that will protect them from soaring energy costs and provide them with the certainty they need to plan through the acute crisis this winter. It will provide them with the time they need to transition and adjust their business models accordingly.

More specific details will be announced shortly and we expect the scheme to be up and running this Autumn.