Local Conservatives are disappointed that all three of Milton Keynes’ Labour MPs Chris Curtis, Emily Darlington and Callum Anderson voted in support of cuts to Winter Fuel Payments, a choice that will directly impact around 33,000 residents in Milton Keynes.
Today [10th September 2024] the Labour Government voted to cut winter fuel payments for the majority of pensioners, removing the universal entitlement for any person over 65 in England and Wales and restricting this financial support to only those who receive pension credit. This means that the average pensioner, at just a few months’ notice, is out of pocket by around £450, when taking into account the £300 loss of payment and upcoming energy price cap rises.
Senior Labour figures, including Sir Keir Starmer, had openly supported Universal Winter Fuel payments and criticised any notion of means-testing.
Despite claiming the cuts are needed, the Prime Minister inherited the fastest growing economy in the G7 with unemployment lower than in 2010. He has since handed out inflation busting pay rises to public sector workers, including train drivers, worth around £10 billion.
Local Conservatives believe that this decision to cut this vital financial relief shows complete disregard for our elderly population, especially those on middle and low incomes just above the threshold, and places significant financial strain and worry on one of the most vulnerable groups within our society, especially approaching the winter months.
MKCC Conservative Group Leader Shazna Muzammil believes residents in Milton Keynes are rightfully concerned about the impact this decision will have on their well-being during the winter months, as many struggle to cover basic heating costs.
She said:
“The vote this afternoon is hugely disappointing. The Labour Government, who were once staunch advocates for universal Winter Fuel Payments, are now opting for a restricted approach that detriments 33,000 pensioners here in Milton Keynes alongside millions of others around the country.
It is equally disappointing that our three newly elected MPs voted in support of these measures, failing to stand up for the thousands of pensioners that they represent. Their choice today to cut off this allowance represents not only a departure from their promises but also a disregard for the needs of our most vulnerable citizens”.
