# Rachel Reeves warns of ‘significant’ economic challenges from Iran war

By Simon Francis — 2026-03-24

Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, said: “Households need to know what the Chancellor’s ‘responsive and responsible’ mantra means in practice.

“The immediate priority must be a new Alternative Fuel Support Scheme for off-gas-grid households, price protection for heat network customers, action on record levels of energy debt and targeted reductions in unit rates from July for households including those with disabilities and long-term health concerns.

“The Chancellor must also commit to expanding and extending the Warm Homes Discount and reforming Cold Weather Payments ahead of the winter.

“The money is there. North Sea profits are rising alongside the same gas prices pushing up household bills.

“Being responsible with public finances means using those revenues now to protect people, not waiting until the damage is done.”

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