Why won't Starmer reverse cut to winter fuel payment?

The prime minister has ruled out any change to the government’s decision to means-test pensioners’ winter fuel allowance (WFA).

- SEAN O'GRADY

The measure, which was immediately controversial when announced by the chancellor last summer, is widely regarded as being an important factor in Labour’s poor showing in last week’s elections, and there was speculation that it might be adjusted.

The bald statement by the PM’s official spokesperson that “there will not be a change to the government’s policy” is designed to end the speculation. That seems unlikely...

Why no change?

It may be that they’ve decided the political price has been paid, and that they’ll just look weak if they adjust it or reverse it. Better, given where they are now, to look resolute, maybe. So, according to Downing Street, the rationale for the cut is precisely the same as was given by Rachel Reeves on 29 July 2024: the decision “was one that we had to take to ensure economic stability and repair the public finances following the £22bn black hole left by the previous government”.

Is that true?