The online listing portal is now being pursued in a class action, launched on behalf of potentially hundreds of estate agents.

Higher energy prices could lead to higher borrowing costs for homeowners, the Bank warns.

The chancellor tells the BBC it is “too early” to say exactly who would get help but hinted any support would not arrive until the autumn.

Many businesses have said they will have to pass higher wage costs onto customers.

A string of bill increases have taken effect but minimum wage and benefit rises will help some to pay them.