The Government has said it stands ready to provide whatever support is needed to help consumers facing rising energy bills as conflict in the Middle East drives up global prices. Energy minister Michael Shanks told a parliamentary committee that while the situation is affecting costs, the United Kingdom’s energy supplies remain secure and come from a diverse range of sources.

He sought to reassure the public that gas and fuel supplies are operating as normal, including deliveries through the country’s liquefied natural gas terminals. Officials are closely monitoring supply levels and have urged people to continue their normal activities, including buying fuel as usual.

However, Shanks acknowledged that uncertainty in the Middle East is influencing wholesale prices and could affect the energy price cap when it is reviewed at the end of June. He said it is too early to predict the outcome, as the review period is still ongoing and market conditions may change.

The Government is also considering whether to adjust policy costs that make up part of household bills, but Shanks cautioned that any short term relief must be balanced against long term investment in renewable energy. He said expanding renewables would reduce reliance on gas and help lower bills permanently in the future.