Energy bill support to go directly to bank accounts for 20 million people

Chancellor John Healey announced a £100 energy payment for 20 million households in England in council tax bands A to D, aimed at easing pressure from rising energy bills this winter. The £2.6 billion scheme will be paid directly into bank accounts, with the government positioning it as “breathing space” during the coldest months amid cost-of-living strain and the impact of conflict in the Middle East. The Budget also includes measures Healey said maintain a pledge not to raise taxes on “working people,” alongside plans for longer-term energy market reform. Further details on delivery and eligibility will follow.