This was the month that 'prepping' went mainstream, with Security Minister Dan Jarvis launching the government's 'Be Ready' campaign to get everyone to keep stores of water, non-perishable food, torches, blankets, and a variety of other items at home. While this is undeniably sensible advice, the cabinet was largely split on what constitutes an essential item. Although Prime Minister Burnham issued a fairly swift rebuke afterwards, these were Angela Rayner's suggestions:
"Mascara, concealer... I don't know, a bottle of sauvignon blanc.
"A tin of baked beans because you've got to have some baked beans. I like a good tin of custard as well.
"So I think that will keep me going for a while."
In order to clear things up, we've prepared our own list of essentials to help you 'be ready':
Torres Crisps (125g)
What is it?
Some of the most expensive crisps that you can buy. But no need to worry, the monetary system might be about to collapse anyway, in an emergency.
Why?
Just because the world's going to hell in a handcart doesn't mean you can't enjoy hand-cooked crisps. You'll be the talk of the Anderson shelter.