Families hardest hit by energy crisis could be given funds dispensed by local councils

As Iran war continues, ministers debate several options for extending support to households

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Families hardest hit by the looming energy crisis caused by the conflict in the Middle East could be given funds dispensed by local councils, under plans being considered by UK ministers keen to keep a lid on costs.

As concerns increase about the impact of rising fuel and energy costs in response to a drawn-out war in Iran, a government official said several options for extending support were being debated inside Whitehall.