Labor accuses Tories of destroying Christmas as festive season will cost 15% more

And Deputy Leader Angela Rayner says the reason is that the Tories have failed to tackle the cost of living with prices in 9% increase while allowing wages to fall by 2.7%

(

Image: PA)

Labour today blames the Tories for ruining Christmas as analysis shows the festive season will cost 15% more than last year.

And Deputy Leader Angela Rayner says the reason is that the Tories have failed to tackle the cost of living with prices up 9% while allowing wages to drop by 2, 7%.

She said, 'This misery is on the Conservatives' doorstep.

"They destroyed the economy and now, in Scrooge's mind, they are ruining Christmas for millions of families who are going without festive treats this year."

Labour figures say data from the Office for National Statistics shows that an average family of four with two children pays 17% more for Christmas dinner, 11% more for the tree, 9% more for lights to decorate it and £5 more for £100 of toys.

Turkeys cost almost a fifth more than in 2021, potatoes are up more than 17%, as is the sauce to put on them.

Labour will raise wages by asking the Low Pay Commission to take the cost of living into account for the first time in its calculation of the national minimum wage.

Ms. Rayner added: "Our New Deal for Workers will help create a stronger, fairer, high-wage, high-growth economy."