How to tackle the UK cost of living crisis – the main economic ideas

Our writers assess and cost the key ideas floated so far, from targeted help to the most vulnerable to a new windfall tax

Boris Johnson has said he will not introduce any new measures to deal with the cost of living crisis. Big spending decisions are being delayed until his successor as prime minister is in post. However, the result of the Conservative leadership election will not be announced until 5 September.

In the meantime, a major increase in the regulated energy price cap, which puts a ceiling on gas and electricity bills, is due to be announced this Friday. It is forecast to rise from just under 2,000, to 3,600 a year for the average household.