9 million to get winter fuel cash after U-turn

NINE million pensioners in England and Wales will receive the winter fuel payment after a £1.25 billion government U-turn.

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The payment, worth up to £300, will be restored to the vast majority of pensioners as anyone with income of under £35,000 will now get the payment automatically.

Rachel Reeves said the UK Government had "listened to people's concerns" about limiting the payment and was now able to widen eligibility because Labour had restored "stability" to the economy.

Ministers insisted no additional borrowing will be needed to cover the reversal, prompting warnings of tax rises.

Those with an income above £35,000 will also receive the payment, but it will then be reclaimed from them in tax.