No 10 resists growing calls within Labour for winter fuel rethink
Summary
The UK government stated it would not change its decision to cut winter fuel payments, even though some members of the Labour Party asked for a reversal. Government spokespersons said that restrictions to the yearly payments were needed to maintain economic balance and fix public finances.Key Facts
- The UK government confirmed the reduction of winter fuel payments will continue as planned.
- Some members of the Labour Party have been asking for a reversal in the policy.
- The denial to change the decision was explained by the need to keep the economy stable and manage public finances better.
- The winter fuel payment is a once-a-year financial support of £200 for pensioners under 80 and £300 for those over 80.
- Last year, the government started restricting these payments to pensioners who receive pension credit or other benefits based on their income.
- This change was projected to save £1.4 billion for the government and meant almost 9 million pensioners no longer received the payment.
- Some Labour Party members think the policy reversal would show that the prime minister understands public concerns.
- The policy change has been criticized by both the unions and the major opposition parties.
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