A WIRRAL MP has called on the government to bring in a windfall tax on oil and gas companies to help tackle the growing cost of living crisis.

Margaret Greenwood MP called on the government during a debate in the House of Commons on the Queen’s Speech, which usually takes places once a year.

The speech sets out the government’s legislative programme for the year ahead including which laws they plan to introduce.

It was delivered by Prince Charles on May 10 and MPs spent six days debating it.

In her contribution to the debate, Margaret Greenwood questioned why the government has not come forward with a windfall tax on oil and gas companies which are making near-record profits.

Greenwood said: “It is extremely disappointing that the government voted against Labour’s proposal for a windfall tax on oil and gas companies. 

“Such a measure would reduce bills and provide much-needed support for people.”

She added: “The National Institute of Economic and Social Research has said that more than a quarter of a million households will slide into destitution next year, taking the total number in extreme poverty to around 1.2 million unless the government act to help the poorest families.

“This is a frightening prospect and should not be allowed to happen. 

“As we face climate change it was incredibly disappointing that the government failed to rule out fracking and UCG.

“These are risky technologies and I know from the correspondence that I receive that people in Wirral West want to see them banned.”