Pressure on Government Over Winter Fuel Allowance Policy for Pensioners
Pressure on Government Over Winter Fuel Allowance Policy for Pensioners
The UK government's decision to strip the winter fuel allowance from most pensioners is facing renewed pressure from unions and Labour MPs. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called for a U-turn on the policy, which will affect all but the poorest pensioners. Union leaders argue that this decision will leave many pensioners worried about heating their homes during the winter. Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, has also been urged to reverse the decision, which he described as 'unpopular'. Despite the opposition, the policy is expected to pass in the Commons vote, with most Labour MPs set to back it. However, some MPs are considering abstaining or being absent. Diana Johnson, the policing minister, defended the policy but acknowledged the concerns of colleagues.