James Duddridge, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East confirms that the Government will protect the winter fuel allowance for older people.
The winter fuel allowance is a yearly tax free payment to help people pay for their heating in the winter.
James said
“ Some constituents have contacted me following recent press speculation regarding the winter fuel allowance. I can assure you that this is nothing more than speculation. We will continue to protect key benefits for older people such as the winter fuel allowance, free TV licences, free bus passes and free eye tests and prescriptions. I believe that people deserve dignity and respect in old age.
I would like to reassure you that Government is committed to looking after pensioners which is why it has reinstated the earnings link for the basic State Pension with a “triple guarantee” that the basic state pension is raised by earnings, prices or 2.5 per cent, whichever is higher. This will mean that the 75 pence increases as seen under the previous Government will be a thing of the past”
For more information regarding Winter Fuel Payments please contact the helpline on 0845 915 1515 (text phone 0845 601 5613). You can use this helpline for any queries you have about Winter Fuel Payments, or to find out what is happening if you are expecting a payment and it is late.
ENDS