Hull MP encourages concerned pensioners to contact her for winter fuel allowance support

Hull MP, Emma Hardy, has encouraged concerned constituents to get in contact with her following the scrapping of the winter fuel allowance, which she voted for.

On Tuesday September 10, MPs voted in favour of the Government's motion to scrap the winter fuel allowance given to all those over 65 and means test it. All but one Labour MP backed their party's leadership and voted in support of the bill.

This includes MP for Hull West and Haltemprice, Emma Hardy, the Government's Minister for Water and Flooding. Ms Hardy explained that the necessity to scrap the payment was brought about by the actions of the previous government.

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She said: "The previous government was reckless with public finances and made a series of unfunded spending commitments leaving a £22bn black hole in the country’s finances this year which required immediate action."

Despite cutting the payment for the majority of over 65s, Ms Hardy emphasised the Labour Party's commitment to "always protect the most vulnerable".

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The winter fuel payment will still be available to those who receive Pension Credit. Ms Hardy explained this by saying "this decision to means test the winter fuel allowance was not taken lightly but we will ensure the most vulnerable pensioners will still receive the support they need."

The MP has pledged to support people in the process of signing up to Pension Credit and is looking into the possibility of an automatic enrolment system for those eligible for the support.

She has asked any concerned residents to contact her directly. She said: "I would encourage any pensioner in Hull West and Haltemprice who is worried about costs this winter to contact me so I can support them in ensuring they’re getting everything they’re entitled to.

Ms Hardy added: "Every Labour government has left office after reducing pensioner poverty and I’m confident that this government will be no different. Over the life of this parliament life will get better, we just need more time to get the changes needed in place.”