Scottish Parliament Urges Reversal of UK Winter Fuel Payment Cuts

MSPs demand reinstatement of universal winter fuel payments as means-testing leaves millions of pensioners at risk.

The Scottish Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favor of a motion calling on the UK government to reverse its decision to means-test winter fuel payments, which has led to widespread concern about pensioner poverty.
Means-testing ties winter fuel payments to pension credit eligibility, potentially excluding millions of pensioners who are just above the poverty line, according to Age UK's analysis.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney criticized the policy change, labeling it a 'double whammy' for vulnerable households facing rising energy costs.
The UK government defends the decision as a necessary measure to address a fiscal shortfall, with plans to increase state pensions and boost pension credit uptake.
Critics, including charities and opposition politicians, warn that the policy could lead to increased poverty and health risks among elderly populations, urging the government to reconsider its stance.