The London Borough of Bexley has criticised the Government’s ‘disgraceful’ plans to stop providing the Winter Fuel Payment to millions of pensioners.
The Conservative-run council said it was looking at using the Household Support Fund, which has been temporarily extended, to support some of the 34,000 Bexley residents set to lose out on the annual payment.
The Government has said the allowance, which had been available to all pensioners, will only be paid to those on means-tested benefits in England and Wales – although it is facing opposition, including from its own benches, on the plans.
It has been forecast that about 10 million pensioners would lose out on the payment.
Cabinet member for resources David Leaf said: ‘We previously used the HSF to help those facing hardship and will look to see if we can work with local partners to use the funds we have to make a difference to those affected by this appalling decision.
‘However, our funds are limited and it will not be enough to support all those in need who have lost out.
‘This uncaring Government must now reflect on this disgraceful decision and their priorities.’
