Over half (52%) of UK adults have stated that they are opposed to a taxpayer-bailout for mortgage holders, despite six in 10 mortgage holders worrying about making their repayments, a survey by Opinium has found.

The data found that only 36% of those surveyed believed that the Government should be supporting mortgage holders with taxpayers’ money, with just one in eight (13%) thinking that the Government will change its mind on a taxpayer bailout.

Opinium found that the younger generation of UK adults, aged 18-34, are less likely to oppose a Government bailout, with just 35% saying they wouldn’t support it. However, over half of those in other age groups suggested they would not support it, with 51% of those 35-49 opposing it, alongside 62% of people aged 50-64 and 63% of those over 65 years old.

Despite a mixed result for Government support for mortgage holders, there was a stronger consensus for taxpayer support to go towards renters, with 47% being in favour. This compares to less than a fifth (19%) for outright homeowners.

Senior research executive at Opinium, Matthew Howlett, said: “While many people feel they can still afford their mortgage payments now, and despite this month’s inflation figures hopefully signalling a slowdown in sharp interest rate rises, there’s clearly anxiety across the country about what will happen if rates continue to rise.

“While many people feel they can still afford their mortgage payments now, there’s clearly anxiety across the country about what will happen if rates continue to rise.

“Currently, most people don’t want or expect a taxpayer-funded bailout, but certain demographics such as those aged 18-24 or renters are much more likely to feel they need support. More tailored support packages for people in specific situations may be a more popular option than a blanket bailout.”

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