AN ENERGY grant should be provided to households struggling for money due to the virus pandemic, the SNP has urged.

The party's Westminster leader Ian Blackford has written to the leaders of the country's political parties urging them to discuss the support for those who have lost their jobs, or had their salaries reduced, when it comes to paying for their gas and electricity.

Mr Blackford said that measures were needed to ensure households do not have their utilities cut off, or get into debt.

He also added that people would be spending more on energy if they are now working from home, and could incur higher charges as a result, which should be taken into consideration.

Along with an emergency coronavirus grant, the MP has also proposed introducing a six-month reprieve on utilities being cut off, and a freeze on energy prices.

He also said there should be a flat rate for phone calls, and landline rental charges suspended during the day to help people keep in touch with their families.

Mr Blackford said: “This is a deeply worrying time for us all - but absolutely no one should be left struggling to heat their home or keep in touch with their families during this unprecedented emergency.

"Household bills and utility usage are going up at the same time that millions of people are seeing a reduction or complete loss of their income. Many are concerned they will be unable to pay - and worried they will be cut off or left with unmanageable debts.

"The SNP is calling on the UK government to ensure a package of measures to help struggling households - including a new Emergency Coronavirus Energy Grant to help pay the bills, a freeze on prices, and a six month reprieve on utilities being cut off to prevent anyone losing access during this crisis.

"The UK government must get round the table with opposition parties, energy and telecoms providers - so people can get the help they need and no one is left behind."