Winter Fuel Payment cut to increase pensioner poverty by around 100,000 as backlash grows

-Credit: (Image: PA)
-Credit: (Image: PA)


Labour’s Winter Fuel Payment cut will increase pensioner poverty by around 100,000 in 2027, according to Department for Work and Pensions modelling.

The Labour Government analysis of the impact of its decision to means-test the payment was published by a Westminster committee.

Ministers been pushed to release the figures after a backlash over the controversial policy.

Millions of people will lose out on up to £300, but in Scotland the policy could be reversed and a universal payment reinstated.

SNP First Minister John Swinney is considering the move in his Budget, while Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar says he would rescind the cut if his party wins the Holyrood election.

READ MORE: Anas Sarwar brands Labour Winter Fuel Payment cut not 'fair' as temperatures to fall to -7C

Sarwar told the Record: “A Scottish Labour government will reinstate the Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners in Scotland. The Winter Fuel Payment was supposed to be a devolved benefit this year and there were additional resources available to the Scottish Government through the Household Support Fund.

“That meant we could have taken a different approach in Scotland to support more households this year - instead, the SNP decided to hand the power back to the DWP. For months I have said that the eligibility criterion of pension credit is too low and called for a Scottish solution to this issue.

“That’s why Scottish Labour will take back this devolved power from the DWP, reinstate the Winter Fuel Payment, and deliver a fairer system to ensure that everyone who needs support gets it. A UK Labour government is clearing up the mess left by a chaotic Tory government – here in Scotland, people are demanding a new direction and in 2026 we have the opportunity to deliver it with a Scottish Labour government.”

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