The relentless rise in fuel, energy and food prices are hitting the worst off hardest, say Northumberland Labour.

Leader Scott Dickinson said: “The price of basic foods many people rely on has shot up.

“For example a bag of pasta has gone up by 44 per cent and a tin of tomatoes has gone up by 29 per cent in just one year; that’s without the record hike in fuel and energy costs which are making just getting by extremely challenging for many individuals and families.

“The Chancellor could have done much more to support individuals and families, but chose not to do so. It’s very disappointing for people who are finding it very hard to manage.

“He could have levied a windfall tax on the energy companies to help people pay their bills. Again, he has prioritised rich energy companies over the people he is supposed to be serving.

“He was boasting about a 5p cut in tax on fuel but in reality that will not go far into addressing the record price of fuel.

“The Chancellor tells us he can’t help everyone. He could start by helping the very people he is supposed to be serving.”