Energy prices to soar again as Jeremy Hunt rejects pleas to halt rise

Millions will see costs mount by another 40% in April as rebate scheme ends and chancellor lets cap go up to £3,000

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has rejected calls to prevent sharp rises in domestic energy bills for all households in his March budget – meaning millions of users will see costs soar by about 40% from April.

Instead, Hunt will emphasise the extra support he is giving to the poorest and most vulnerable households, including those on benefits, in what he will describe as a more fairly targeted system of support.