Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, if she will hold discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on providing additional support for the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community in the context of the cost of living crisis.

The government understands that people across the UK are worried about the rising cost of living and are seeing their disposable incomes decrease as they spend more on the essentials. Although it is impossible for the government to solve every problem, we can and will ease the burden as we help the entire country through the worst of this crisis.

In May, we announced over £15 billion of additional cost of living support, targeted at those with the greatest need. As a result, millions of vulnerable households will receive at least £1,200 of support this financial year, with the vast majority of households receiving at least £550. This package builds on the over £22 billion previously announced, meaning government support for the cost of living now totals over £37 billion this year, equivalent to 1.5% of GDP.

In addition to timely, temporary and targeted support, the government is also committed to tackling the root cause of the cost of living challenge – high inflation. Through independent monetary policy, responsible management of the public finances and supply-side reforms, we will combat high inflation and reduce it over time.