Commenting after research published by Birmingham World shows Birmingham Ladywood is set to be one of the constituencies hit hardest by the rising cost of living, Shabana Mahmood said:

“This research confirms the reality facing many Birmingham Ladywood constituents already. Families are telling me they are facing the very stark choice between feeding their children or heating their home.

“The Chancellor’s recent statement is a complete disaster for living standards and has left the British people with the highest tax burden in 70 years.

“Before the Ukraine crisis, inflation was already spiralling, and it is Conservative choices that have left us exposed to a cost of living crisis.

“Under the Conservatives, families in Birmingham Ladywood and across the country are £2,620 worse off. We’re facing astronomical price rises: in the weekly shop, at the pumps, and rising energy bills. The Government has also chosen to put up National Insurance Contributions at exactly the wrong time.

“Labour’s fully-funded plan starts with a one-off windfall tax on North Sea oil and gas profits, and would save households £200 on their bills, with an extra targeted support of £400 to those who need it most. We would also stop the hike in National Insurance.

“While the Conservatives blunder from scandal to scandal, it’s Labour that is on your side.”

ENDS