Relief as Labour reinstates winter fuel payments

THE reinstatement of winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners has been described as a “relief” to households across the North East.

- DANIEL HOLLAND and JAMES ROBINSON

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed yesterday that all pensioners with an income of £35,000 or less will get the benefit this winter, following a huge backlash against Labour's decision to limit the payments last year.

The partial U-turn will mean that nine million pensioners across England and Wales will automatically receive the payment of up to £300, the Government said.

Newcastle-based fuel poverty charity National Energy Action welcomed the reversal of a policy seen as a major cause of a collapse in Labour's support since last year’s general election.

Matt Copeland, the charity's head of policy and public affairs, said: "We welcome this new clarity and certainty concerning the winter fuel payment, and it is a relief that it will now go to so many more pension-age households who really need it.

"We mustn't forget about low-income working-age households, many of whom are struggling to afford their energy bills - they also need more direct energy bill support.