Commenting on the Chancellor’s statement this morning, Rebecca Newsom, Greenpeace UK head of politics, said: “Finally this government has uttered the words ‘energy efficiency’ – a solution that’s been staring them in the face.

“But it’s scandalous to roll back support for energy bills beyond April without clarity on how households will be protected.

“The current plan is poorly targeted and fails to protect the most vulnerable. At least £20bn is needed for a package to help the poorest avoid fuel poverty this winter, and to insulate draughty homes to reduce future government costs and keep bills low for good.

“This should be funded by levies to make polluters pay: a windfall tax without loopholes on fossil fuel extraction, a frequent flyer levy, and a tax on incineration. These types of taxes would be a much fairer solution than spending cuts – which would likely further hurt British people and undermine growth.”