Local Lib Dems call for government re-think over ‘short-sighted’ winter fuel payment cut

 Crossens and Churchtown Councillors have launched a short survey to discover the impact on local residents following the Labour government’s decision to make the winter fuel allowance means tested which would see it being taken away from around 10 million pensioners.

From this autumn, those not on pension credit or other means-tested benefits will no longer get the annual payments, worth between £100 and £300.

Local Councillors John Dodd, Gareth Lloyd-Johnson and Lauren Keith have set up a survey to raise awareness about the issue.

John Dodd commented: “Last winter many older people struggled to stay warm and we know that energy prices are expected to rise again this winter. With the cost of living so high this payment is a lifeline to many. We will be putting pressure on the government to reverse this and that’s why we have launched a survey to find out more about how this will impact local residents”

Gareth Lloyd-Johnson added:  “This is a short sighted move from the Labour government.  Recent estimates from the Department of Work and Pensions suggests that up to nearly 900,000 people who are entitled to pension credit do not claim it.  Taking away the winter fuel payment may lead to a surge in people claiming this credit which would slash the savings that the government claims it will make.

You can complete the survey here. You can also sign Age UK’s petition here