MERIDEN and Solihull East MP, Saqib Bhatti, is calling on the Chancellor to apologise for the anxiety caused by the Government’s decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payment for over 40,000 pensioners across Solihull.
In an announcement on Monday, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, confirmed that the Government had scrapped the plans to limit the allowance to people with an income below £11,500.
In its new variation, all pensioners will receive the payment of up to £300 this winter.
Next year, those on £35,000 or more will be expected to return it via their tax return or PAYE.
Mr Bhatti welcomed the Government’s change of position, but insisted that it was because of pressure from the Conservatives. Questioning the Pension’s Minister, Torsten Bell MP, Mr Bhatti demanded the Government issue a full apology.
Mr Bhatti said: “I spoke in the House of Commons about Government’s embarrassing U-turn on the Winter Fuel
Allowance. The Conservatives forced this U-turn to these cruel and vindictive cuts and I am proud to have helped save thousands of Silhillians’ critical winter fuel payments.
“The Government’s decision meant that in Solihull alone, over 40,000 people lost their Winter Fuel Payment last year.
“Many of these residents faced real anxiety and uncertainty during the cold months, unsure how they would afford to keep their homes warm – the Minister should have apologised.
“Our pensioners deserve to live in dignity, after spending their lives working hard and paying their taxes. I will keep fighting to ensure these cuts never happen again, and that the Government truly listens to the people it is supposed to serve.”
