Maria Eagle MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, commenting on today’s report on food banks said:

“This report lays bare the extent of the cost of living crisis in David Cameron’s Britain. Low pay and rising prices have pushed hundreds of thousands into relying on food banks, and the Bedroom Tax and poor practice at the Department of Work and Pensions have made things worse.

“The squeeze on living standards exposed in this report is the most important issue facing politics today. That’s why Labour is committed to freezing energy prices, taking action on water bills and raising the minimum wage, as well as abolishing the unfair Bedroom Tax.

“Our economic plan will ensure we earn our way to rising living standards for all, not just a few, and balance the books in a fair way.”