Prime Minister Keir Starmer suffered a setback at the Labour Party’s annual conference. Members voted to reinstate winter fuel payments for all pensioners, challenging the government’s decision to limit the benefit.
The vote took place in Liverpool, where delegates backed a motion urging the government to reverse its controversial decision to means-test the payments. While the vote has no direct impact on policy, it signals frustration within the party over Starmer’s approach to this issue.
The government recently announced that only the poorest pensioners would receive the winter fuel payments. This decision was part of efforts to tackle a £22 billion deficit left by the previous Conservative government. As a result, 10 million pensioners will no longer receive the benefit, which is worth up to £300.
However, many within Labour are unhappy with this decision. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham voiced her concern at the conference, saying, “People simply don’t understand how our new Labour government can cut winter fuel payments for pensioners while leaving the super-rich untouched.”
Alan Tate from the Communication Workers Union added, “This cut has overshadowed the good work of the new Labour government. Many of our retired members are now worried about choosing between heating and eating.”
Despite the criticism, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall defended the policy. She explained that while the decision was difficult, it was necessary to address the financial crisis left by the Tories.
“Focusing winter fuel payments on the poorest pensioners wasn’t what we wanted, but we had to act responsibly with taxpayers’ money,” Kendall said. “When faced with a £22 billion hole, we had no choice.”
Kendall also pointed out that the Labour government has introduced other measures to support pensioners. These include a major push to enrol pensioners in pension credit and maintaining the pensions triple lock, which will raise state pensions by an estimated £1,700 during this parliamentary term.
Prime Minister Starmer stood by the decision, blaming the previous government for leaving a financial mess. “The people who should be apologising are those who created this £22 billion hole,” Starmer said.
Both Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have repeatedly ruled out reinstating the winter fuel payment for all pensioners, despite the pressure. While the conference vote does not change policy, it highlights growing discontent within the party.
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