Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a reversal on winter fuel payments, now extending eligibility to nine million pensioners in England and Wales with an annual income of up to £35,000. This decision is a response to public concern and aims to assist lower and middle-income households during the winter months. The payments will remain means-tested but cover a greater portion of pensioners, reflecting a commitment to support those who missed out last year. The announcement also comes just ahead of the government's Spending Review, indicating a shift in fiscal strategies in light of previous poor election results.
"It will still be means-tested but at a higher level," Reeves told broadcasters on Wednesday. "Because of changes we've made and the stability we've brought back to the economy, we are able to increase that amount."
The payment's increased threshold for eligibility means "no lower or middle-income pensioners will miss out," confirming the government's responsiveness to public concern.
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