LONDON (Reuters] – After its budget, which was criticised for being too restrictive, the Sunday Times reported that Britain could offer another multi-billion pound package in order to protect households against an increase in their energy bills.

Rishi Sunak, Finance Minister, announced in February a package of loans from the state to energy providers as well as a reduction on local taxes to ease the impact of the 54% increase in energy prices. This will be in effect in April.

The average household will see prices rise by 1,971 Pounds ($2,600/year) in April. This is the same month as taxes rising. However, with the global rise of gas prices, analysts believe that regulators could raise the price limit another 30%.

Sunday Times reported that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had and Sunak signalled to state officials, saying they were ready to help cover half the increase in energy cost.

A source within the finance ministry told the Times that they had already examined the issue and determined that council taxes are the most efficient way. This is a tax collected from households. There is an established mechanism. There is no need to build a completely new system. You could do it the same way again.

Sunak, the Sun of Sunday said that Sunak wanted more.

Sunak was quoted as saying, “I understand people are deeply anxious about how they will make ends meet.” While we are unable to protect everyone from all the challenges that face global society, we can help and we will assist you in coping with rising costs.

Nadhim Zahawi, Britain’s education minister, said Sunday that the government will continue to monitor costs. However it noted that the country had also provided financial assistance throughout the pandemic.

($1 = 0.7583 pounds)