The MP for Eastleigh has urged the government to freeze energy bills.

Liberal Democrat Liz Jarvis's call follows Ofgem's announcement that the energy price cap will rise again in January.

The energy price cap is set to increase to £1,738 annually, after a 10 per cent rise in October.

The MP said: "People here in Eastleigh should not have to face the prospect of once again having to fork out even more for their energy bills this winter. This energy price rise cannot go ahead.

"I have heard already from countless people in our area about how worried they are that this winter they will have to choose between heating and eating.

"For many pensioners here too, this price rise coincides with the cut to Winter Fuel Payments - bill rises and less support will leave many struggling to keep warm this winter.

"The new government has pledged to bring down energy bills. It is time for them to live up to their word, cancel this bill rise and protect families and pensioners here in Eastleigh this winter."

Ms Jarvis is also pushing for the reinstatement of winter fuel payments, warning of the impact on Eastleigh pensioners.

The Liberal Democrats are urging the government to cancel the planned rise to prevent households from facing higher energy costs in the new year.