Reeves announces targeted help for households with rising heating oil bills.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will next week announce tens of millions of pounds in targeted support for about 1.5 million UK households that rely on heating oil, which is not covered by the Ofgem energy price cap.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans targeted support for households that use heating oil, reported as a response to rising prices linked to the Middle East conflict. Heating oil is not included in the Ofgem energy price cap, and officials reported that around 1.5 million UK households rely on the fuel. Reeves said she has identified funding and will set out a subsidy package next week. She also said she wants to be disciplined about public spending while working through targeted options. Key details: - The announcement is reported as tens of millions of pounds in targeted support for heating oil users. - About 1.5 million households are reported to rely on heating oil, typically kerosene or red diesel, which falls outside the Ofgem price cap. - Reports say the price per litre of heating oil has doubled since the start of the Middle East conflict. - Reeves said the Ofgem cap for gas and electricity runs to June, and she will outline options for targeted support next week. Summary: The measures are described as aimed at reducing cost pressure for households that are not protected by the energy price cap. Officials report a sharp rise in heating oil prices and say funding has been identified; Reeves will set out the subsidy package next week. Further details and the full cost of the measures are undetermined at this time.