Lockhart Challenges Chancellor Over “Inaccurate” Energy Support Claims
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has challenged the Chancellor in the House of Commons after claims were made that households in Northern Ireland received £150 off their energy bills in April.
Speaking after raising the issue in Parliament, Mrs Lockhart outlined the question she put directly to the Chancellor around support for key sectors and the wider cost pressures facing families.
She said:
“I asked the Chancellor a clear and direct question. Will the Government act to cut fuel duty, scrap punitive carbon taxes, and properly support the industries that underpin our economic security and stability? Farmers, hauliers and those in construction are under immense pressure, and the consequences of inaction are serious. No farmers means no food, no hauliers means empty shelves, and no construction means a country that stands still.”
In response, the Chancellor stated that households in Northern Ireland had received £150 off their energy bills in April.
Mrs Lockhart said that claim does not reflect the reality facing people locally and moved quickly to correct the record.
Responding, she said:
“The claim that households in Northern Ireland received £150 off their energy bills in April is simply not true. Families here have not seen that support, and it was important that the record was set straight. People deserve honesty, not spin, particularly at a time when so many are struggling with rising costs.
The reality is that the funding is sitting unspent in a Sinn Fein department at Stormont while households continue to feel the pressure. That is simply not acceptable.”
Mrs Lockhart confirmed she raised a point of order in the House to formally challenge the statement and ensure accuracy.
“I raised a point of order to correct the record and stand up for my constituents, who are being hit hardest. People in Northern Ireland deserve their fair share, and they deserve it now. That funding must be released and put into the hands of those who need it most.”
Mrs Lockhart added that she will continue to press for action from both the UK Government and Stormont.
“This is about fairness and delivery. I will continue to push until we see real support reaching people, not just announcements that do not reflect reality.”
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