BORIS Johnson has been accused of "virtue signalling" after sending a letter of support to children in Ukraine while a cost-of-living crisis endures in the UK.

The Prime Minister said in his letter to Ukrainian youngsters that the UK "stands with you" as war in the country continues and told them "you are not alone" and should be "immensely proud".

But a political activist on Twitter has slated the move by Johnson and accused him of doing nothing for "cold and impoverished" children at home.

Mike Galsworthy, founder of the Scientists for EU campaign group, shared Johnson's letter on Twitter and said: "How ridiculous is this? We have children cold & malnourished in this country… but rather than DO anything about it, he takes the option of writing to “all the children of Ukraine”.

"As if children of Ukraine are going to sit around reading his letter. Pure virtue signalling.

A poll showed yesterday one in five Scots are running out of money before payday, with Citizens Advice Scotland warning it was a sign of the growing cost-of-living crisis.

The UK Government is coming under immense pressure to support people financially, especially after the boss of EON, Michael Lewis, warned a staggering 40% of his customers could be facing fuel poverty when the energy price cap is hiked again in October.

Johnson's letter said: "I cannot imagine how difficult this year must have been for you. But I want you to keep two things in mind.

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"The first is you should be immensely proud. Many of you have experienced things no child should have to witness. Yet, everyday Ukrainian children are teaching us all what it means to be strong and dignified. I can think of no better role model for adults and children everywhere.

"And the second thing is you are not alone. You may be separated from your friends at home, but you have millions of others all over the world.

"I believe that Ukraine is going to win this war. I hope with all my heart that, one day soon, you will be free to return to your homes, your schools, your families. And whatever happens, we in the UK will never forget you and will always be proud to call you our friends."