Sir Gavin Williamson called on the Labour Government to reverse their plans to cut Winter Fuel Payments for millions of pensioners.
Sir Gavin joined the debate on the policy in the House of Commons, where he expressed his horror that millions of pensioners would be left to struggle through the winter.
In one of the first acts of the new Labour Government, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced just weeks after the election that she planned to cut the Winter Fuel Payment which will reduce it by between £100 to £300. Should the plans go ahead, households will no longer be eligible unless they receive Pension Credit or certain other means-tested benefits.
Many have raised their concerns about the introduction of means testing the Winter Fuel Payment, which would take away vital funds for those who really need it. Around 880,000 vulnerable pensioner households will miss out on Winter Fuel Payments despite being eligible. The Labour Government has suggested that they will encourage take-up of pension credit to prevent the worst, however, take-up currently sits at 63% and has not gone above 66% in a decade.
In Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge, thousands are worried they will struggle through the winter, with many having to choose between eating and staying warm. An estimated 19,605 in the constituency will lose their Winter Fuel Payment this year, which could cause health problems for many. Being cold at home poses a particular risk for older people by raising blood pressure, leading to an increased risk of strokes and heart attacks. Many are also scared of developing hypothermia.
Sir Gavin said: “In Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge, over 19,600 pensioners are going to lose their Winter Fuel Payments. So many of them are incredibly proud and do not want to be forced into applying for additional benefits. So many will narrowly miss qualifying for eligibility and will be anxiously awaiting the colder weather. The decisions of this Government are condemning them to a cold and incredibly hard winter.”
