On Wednesday (May 18) morning, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said Consumer Prices Index inflation rose to nine per cent in the year to April.

This represents a 40-year high for inflation in the UK, and Oldham's MPs have had their say.

Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West and Royton, said: "The rise in inflation is hugely worrying for families in Chadderton, Oldham and Royton who were already struggling and having to make difficult choices.

"Scary numbers can sometimes be hard to fathom but the reality is people are struggling to afford food and heat their homes. Households on the lowest income will feel this pressure harder than others."

Labour is calling for an emergency budget to try and end the cost of living crisis.

Labour deputy leader and MP for Ashton and Failsworth Angela Rayner said: "We can’t stand by as pensioners are pushed into poverty, families are too scared of the gas bill to use the cooker and people are riding the bus all day to keep warm.

"We can’t wait any longer for action from this out of touch government."

Labour is also calling for a one-off windfall tax on gas and oil companies which they believe would raise billions to help deal with the crisis.

MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth Debbie Abrahams said: "This Conservative party has made it clear that they will do everything they can to protect oil and gas companies but take no action to protect ordinary families many of whom are really struggling with a cost of living crisis.

"The fact that inflation has hit 9% today is yet more evidence, as if it were needed, that the government must heed our calls for an Emergency Budget, without delay."