The Daily Mirror has called it 'April Cruel Day'—starting from April 1 pre-announced price rises for many households in the UK will take effect. Also dubbed 'Bleak Friday' by The Guardian, household costs are set to rise amid a cost of living crisis that is already being felt. Here’s what you can expect to pay more for:
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Bills and Taxes
The price cap on energy bills for households in Great Britain has risen by 54% or £693 per year, on average. Water bills have also risen by 1.7% or £7 per year, to an average of £419.
Council tax has increased by 3.5% or £67 per year, on average. The annual cost of taxing your car—Vehicle excise duty (VED)—is increasing in line with RPI, which is usually the highest measure of inflation. VED is based on a range of factors but tax on a band E car, for example, is rising from £155 per year to £165. The most polluting cars will experience a £30 rise.
Phones, broadband, TV
Telecoms and streaming companies have announced price increases across their services of around £42 per year. This comes after Netflix decided in March to raise its subscription price for the second time in just 18 months for UK subscribers.
Some, such as Virgin, have already applied price hikes this month. Sky, BT, and Vodafone customers could all receive pricier bills from today.
Pint of beer
A temporary VAT cut on hospitality has finished, and pubs and restaurants are among businesses that will pay 60% more in tax as a consequence. Some of the increase, from 12.5% to 20% VAT, is anticipated to affect prices charged.
The Greater Manchester night-time economy adviser has predicted that over the next three months this and other price pressures will add 16 to 20p to the price of a pint, making the UK average £4.25.
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Lateral flow tests
The English government will stop providing free Lateral Flow Tests (LFTs) to most households. People who will need to pay for LFTs include those visiting relatives in care homes, or those visiting a venue or service. Retailers such as Tesco and Boots are selling individual tests for £2, however cheaper options can be found online.
