There were 100 “excess” deaths in Islington last winter, according to new Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.

The ONS attributes the majority to respiratory diseases – but research by the charities National Energy Action and E3G, published earlier this year, indicated fuel poverty and cold homes were underlying factors.

Provisional figures for this winter have also been released, showing 4,200 excess winter deaths across London. That’s an increase of 23 per cent compared to the previous year.

London Assembly Member for North East, Jennette Arnold, said: “It is extremely concerning to see this increase, and unacceptable so many Londoners this winter will be trapped in cold homes.

“This is a deep and entirely preventable social injustice. Sadly, this tragic rise is likely to continue, unless significant action is taken to improve housing standards and address fuel poverty in the capital.

“Work is being undertaken at City Hall to tackle these issues, but it clear that we now need more support from the Government. I would also urge all homeowners, tenants and landlords whose properties are insufficiently insulated to bid for City Hall’s Warmer Homes scheme funding.”