Keir Starmer has said he would review the unpopular winter fuel entitlement policy after critics repeatedly warned it would impact pensioners struggling with the cost of living.
Speaking at prime minister’s questions, the PM told Parliament: ‘We want to ensure that, as we go forward, more pensioners are eligible for winter fuel payments.’
Sir Keir said the details of any revisions to the policy would be announced at a ‘fiscal event’, which observers believe means the autumn budget.
Cllr Sir Stephen Houghton, chair of the Special Interest Group of Municipal Authorities (SIGOMA), welcomed the decision.
He said the previous threshold for accessing the support ‘left too many pensioners struggling’.
‘Today’s announcement is a welcome sign that the Government is listening to voices from across local government who have seen the impact that this decision has had locally.’
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