The Lagan Valley MP has asked other Northern Ireland MPs to co-sign a letter which makes several asks of the Government. They include a reduction in fuel duty as well as scrapping the proposed increase in it, consideration of removal of VAT from home heating oil, and increasing windfall taxes on energy companies.

Sorcha – who has also written to the Prime Minister alongside her Party Leader Naomi Long MLA - said such moves would help ease the pressures many households are under, given the specific circumstances of Northern Ireland.

“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is having an impact throughout the world, with people here facing rising energy and fuel costs making life unbearable for many people and businesses,” said Ms Eastwood.

“Northern Ireland has been particularly exposed, given our reliance on home heating oil, high rates of fuel poverty and poor public transport links. It’s sadly not surprising we have seen fuel prices rise faster here than most of Europe.

“Therefore urgent action needs to be taken by the UK Government to ease that pressure. The proposed help discussed thus far is far from adequate and is forcing many to choose between heating their home or other essentials.

“We need to see an immediate reduction in fuel duty and ultimately scrapping of its proposed increase. We also need to give consideration of removing VAT from home heating oil, agricultural diesel and general commercial use.

“This can all be partially funded by increasing windfall taxes on energy companies, given the recent increase in share prices in recent weeks. The war windfall they are receiving would be morally and economically repugnant if left unchecked.

“It is vital we speak with a united voice on this matter and that’s why I’ve asked my fellow local MPs to sign this letter, so we can push the UK Government to provide whatever assistance they can, for the benefit of all our constituents.”