Today in Parliament, I voted against Labour's proposal to cut winter fuel payments for more than 10 million pensioners.
The Government attempted to force the change without a vote. But, together with 79 Conservative colleagues, I secured a vote by signing a motion demanding Parliament decide. But 348 Labour MPs voted to end universal winter fuel payments, passing the Government's welfare cut.
Under the current system, every pensioner is entitled to winter fuel payments of up to £300, paid automatically in November or December. However, under Labour's changes, only pensioners receiving certain benefits, mainly Pension Credit, will be entitled to energy bill support. That means millions of pensioners will lose support this winter as annual energy costs increase by 10% in October to over £1,700 for the typical household. Over 15,000 pensioners across Bromley and Biggin Hill will be affected.
As a Conservative, I prefer targeted rather than universal benefits. However, in the case of winter fuel payments, Labour's plan isn't about removing support from wealthy pensioners who can afford to pay their energy bills; it affects those with the least, the most. Five in six pensioners below the poverty line will be worse off due to this cut.
According to Age UK, the Pension Credit system misses one million pensioners entitled to help but aren't receiving it. They are surviving on less than £218 a week, but Labour's welfare cut will stop their winter fuel payments. Another one million pensioners who are not eligible but live on as little as £12,000 a year will be left struggling to pay their energy bills this winter.
It's not right. It's not fair. And that's why I voted against it.
If you are of state pension age and on a low income, I urge you to check whether you are entitled to Pension Credit. The benefit is worth, on average, £3,900, depending on your circumstances. It will also mean you will continue to receive winter fuel payments automatically.
Voluntary organisations like Citizens Advice and Age UK can support you in your application. My team and I are also here to help, so please don't hesitate to get in touch: [email protected].
