US EditionNo 10 resists Labour calls for winter fuel rethink
- The UK government restricted Winter Fuel Payments from July 2024, limiting eligibility to pensioners receiving Pension Credit or means-tested benefits, mainly affecting around nine million older people.
- The restriction aimed to save about 1.5 billion pounds annually, prompted by concerns over rising energy costs and government efforts to reduce public spending on welfare benefits.
- Critics highlight that many pensioners face increased financial strain and health risks due to complex Pension Credit claims and the sharp loss of £500 per year in support from the fuel payment cut.
- Reports show a public backlash with over 150,000 signing a petition to reverse the decision, while government officials confirm no immediate policy changes despite electoral losses blamed partly on this issue.
- The ongoing controversy pressures ministers to consider raising eligibility thresholds, but opposition politicians warn this alone may not restore trust or adequately support vulnerable pensioners during rising living costs.
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19 Articles
19 Articles
All
Left
3
Center
8
Right
1
Coverage Details
Total News Sources19
Leaning Left3Leaning Right1Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution67% Center
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
67% Center
L 25%
C 67%
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