The United Kingdom has not engaged in any military action against Iran, and I affirm that during my leadership, we will steadfastly avoid being drawn into conflicts that do not align with our national interests.
Although vessels carrying essential supplies are currently stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, the repercussions are being felt globally, including at petrol stations. Prior to recent events, fuel prices were at a five-year low, but they have now surged to nearly £1.60 per liter for unleaded petrol.
The escalating costs are understandably concerning for the working populace, who have faced similar challenges for decades. Repeatedly, when global events unfolded—such as Brexit, the Covid pandemic, or the conflict in Ukraine—it was the working class who bore the brunt of the consequences, underscoring the failure of the existing system to protect their interests.
In contrast, the current administration has been proactive since 2024 in making strategic decisions aimed at fortifying and leveling the playing field for all citizens. By investing in sustainable domestic energy sources, bolstering the economy through robust public finances, and enhancing national security with defense investments that create employment opportunities, we are on a path to dismantling the prevailing status quo permanently.
These efforts have yielded positive outcomes. In response to the ongoing crisis, we have managed to reduce energy bills, raise the national living wage, and eliminate the two-child benefit cap. Moreover, we have frozen prescription charges, train fares, and fortified labor rights, all made achievable due to the solid groundwork laid in previous years.
To further support the public amid rising fuel prices, the government has extended the fuel duty cut until the year’s end, providing relief to every driver and fortifying economic stability.
The impact of soaring petrol prices extends beyond the pumps, affecting food costs, farmers, and transportation expenses. Therefore, measures have been announced to alleviate these pressures, including a year-long road tax exemption for hauliers and a significant reduction in duty on farmers’ red diesel.
Additionally, in a bid to ease the financial burden on families, free bus travel for children across England will be granted this August. These decisions underscore the government’s commitment to alleviating immediate challenges while laying a foundation for a resilient economy that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens.
In times of crisis, the true test lies in how a government responds. While past administrations have often shifted the burden onto the working class, this government stands firm in its pledge to support them and build a more equitable and robust Britain for their benefit.
As Prime Minister, I am committed to ensuring that the government remains on the side of the people, making decisions that provide immediate relief and pave the way for a prosperous future.