11 October 2024
Rally against cutting winter fuel payment, Houses of Parliament, London, 7 October 2024. Photo Workers.
The National Pensioners Convention and retired members of Unite organised large rallies in London and Belfast on Monday 7 October for the restoration of the winter fuel payment for pensioners.
Speakers pointed out the impact of the proposed cut on the National Health Service, as those in fuel poverty will suffer worse health.
High prices
Electricity prices in Britain are higher than anywhere else in Europe and direct government support introduced in 2022 has ended. Energy prices have already risen by 10 per cent this month; they are expected to rise by at least another 3 per cent in January.
With the withdrawal of the winter fuel allowance, the cost of energy for many pensioners will more than double compared to two years ago. The government’s own figures estimate an additional 4,000 older people will die as a result of ending the winter fuel payment for all.