Critics argue the measures do not go far enough to address the underlying pressures. The change would affect an estimated two million households from the start of the next financial year. Similar schemes elsewhere have produced mixed results, with outcomes varying widely by region.
Officials stressed that no final decision has been taken and that consultation will run into the autumn. Independent analysts note the projections rest on assumptions that may prove optimistic. The figures represent the sharpest movement recorded since comparable data began. Critics argue the measures do not go far enough to address the underlying pressures.
A spokesperson said the approach balances affordability against the need for long-term investment. Several of those briefed on the plans said the detail matters more than the headline commitment. Similar schemes elsewhere have produced mixed results, with outcomes varying widely by region.
Officials stressed that no final decision has been taken and that consultation will run into the autumn. Critics argue the measures do not go far enough to address the underlying pressures. Similar schemes elsewhere have produced mixed results, with outcomes varying widely by region. Several of those briefed on the plans said the detail matters more than the headline commitment.
A spokesperson said the approach balances affordability against the need for long-term investment. The change would affect an estimated two million households from the start of the next financial year. The figures represent the sharpest movement recorded since comparable data began.







