UK: Labour Faces Union Backlash Over Winter Fuel Allowance Cut
UK: Labour Faces Union Backlash Over Winter Fuel SubsidyAllowance Cut
The Facts
UK trade union Unite has called for a "U-turn" on plans to revoke the winter fuel payment for over 10M pensioners — which will be voted on in the House of Commons on Tuesday.
The winter fuel payment was introduced in 1997 by Gordon Brown to help the elderly pay for heating during winter. In July, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that the previously universal payment would now be given only to those who receive pension credit.
The Spin
Starmer and his cabinet members didn't come to this decision lightly, and they understand the concerns of British public. However, this policy will not affect the poorest in society and will remain available for many who are still yet to apply for the winter fuel allowance. Unfortunately, this is a necessary budget cut to fill a massive budget hole left by the previous Conservative government.
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