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Zahawi met a number of young people on Wednesday 17 August at Sydenham School, which is funded through the Government’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) club. Holiday clubs aim to improve wellbeing, behaviour and social skills of children. The HAF scheme is backed by over £200 million each year and runs in the Easter, Summer and Christmas school holidays.

In response to the latest ONS statistics, which show inflation reached 10.1% in the 12 months to July, up from 9.4% in June, the Chancellor reaffirmed that working alongside the independent Bank of England to get inflation under control was his ‘top priority’.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Nadhim Zahawi said: “It’s fantastic to be here at Sydenham School to meet young people who are benefiting from our Holiday Activities and Food programme. Holiday clubs like this not only provide a nutritious meal but also the chance to take part in activities they may not otherwise have exposure to, such as music lessons, cookery classes or the arts.

“I know times are tough and people are concerned about rising prices. That’s why we have continually taken action to help households including £1,200 of extra support for eight million of the most vulnerable households and £400 off energy bills for everyone over the winter.

“We are doing all we can to support families and I am delighted that more retailers have got on board with our Help for Households campaign, offering some brilliant discounts on back to school essentials.”