The government reinstated winter fuel payments for three-quarters of pensioners, allowing those with incomes of £35,000 or less to receive up to £300 for winter energy bills. While Labour MPs welcomed this decision, they emphasized that the income threshold was previously set too low and called for a reversal of planned cuts to disability benefits and the two-child benefit cap. The recent U-turn comes amid increased pressure on the government from Labour MPs following disappointing local election results, as advocates argue that previous cuts severely impacted vulnerable populations.
Labour MPs expressed gratitude for the reinstated winter fuel payments while pressing to reverse cuts on disability benefits and the two-child benefit cap.
The government’s decision affects nine million pensioners, allowing up to £300 for energy bills, which Labour MPs argued was fair yet criticized for being too low.
Some Labour MPs are urging a reconsideration of the two-child benefit cap as they claim it drives families into poverty, highlighting ongoing welfare struggles.
The government’s previous means-tested approach left 10 million pensioners without the payment, prompting backlash from various advocacy groups and opposition parties.
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