Keir Starmer to address nation after vowing to 'protect British people at home and abroad'

Sir Keir Starmer is due to update the nation on cost of living concerns as energy prices continue to rise due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

The Prime Minister is due to speak at a press conference this morning after he promised to "protect the British people at home and abroad".

It is believed that Sir Keir's speech will address both the conflict in the Middle East - which Donald Trump has signalled may be coming to a close - and the impact of rising energy prices on British households.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said any Government support to British people would be means-tested and likely to come after the summer months, where there is greater demand for energy as the weather cools.

Speaking to the BBC, she refused to commit to immediate support for drivers.

She added she had to be "careful" with cuts to fuel duty or VAT on petrol due to concerns it would push up inflation.

Since the conflict in Iran started on February 28, the price of oil has soared, particularly due to the Islamic Regime blocking the strategic shipping lane, the Strait of Hormuz.

The impact has been felt hard on British wallets, with the price of diesel currently at 182.77p - roughly 40p higher than before the war - and petrol at 152.83p, according to data from the RAC.

President Trump has indicated US military action in Iran may be folding in as soon as "two to three weeks", regardless of whether the two nations can strike a peace deal.

What is happening in UK politics today?

Good morning, happy April Fool's from the GB News Politics team!

Here's what is happening today in Westminster and beyond...

Sir Keir Starmer will address the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the impact it is having on energy prices at home in a press conference this morning.

PMQs are likely be focused on the Government's response to the Iranian conflict and how Sir Keir intends to ensure British households are protected from the volatility.

The Chancellor will be meeting with supermarket bosses this afternoon on the cost of living and how rising food prices can be eased.

From today, there are a raft of new measures coming into force, for instance, the National Living Wage rises to £12.71 and energy bills are set to be cut by an average of £117 a year... but, households will also see council tax, water bills, car tax, TV licences, broadband and stamp prices all increase this month.

On GB News, we'll be hearing from Matt Vickers, shadow secretary on Illegal Migration this morning.

Stay tuned for all things politics.