Crewe and Nantwich MP, Connor Naismith, says he is "glad" the government plans to revisit the Winter Fuel Allowance threshold for local pensioners.

On Wednesday 21 May, Prime Minister, Keir Starmer announced plans to ensure more pensioners are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments, as part of a fiscal event by increasing the threshold from current levels. 

Mr Naismith says he voted in favour of changing the Winter Fuel Payment eligibility rules, on the basis the reduction would not affect the poorest pensioners.

On Wednesday 21 May, Prime Minister, Keir Starmer announced plans to ensure more pensioners are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments, as part of a fiscal event by increasing the threshold from current levels (Ryan Parker).

After seeing the impact it had on lower-income pensioners, particularly those within his constituency, the MP called for the Winter Fuel Allowance threshold to be raised on multiple occasions.

In September, Mr Naismith said: "I wasn't elected to Parliament to vote for cuts to Winter Fuel Allowance, and it's not a choice I wanted or expected to make.

"In this context of the poor economic inheritance left by the Conservatives, we cannot continue to provide winter fuel payments to the wealthiest pensioners.

"But, I recognise this is difficult for those at the lower end of the threshold who are losing the payment, and I will work with government to support those pensioners who need additional support."  

Mr Naismith told Nub News he has been calling for the threshold of the Winter Fuel Payments to be increased since then.

Connor was one of six MPs to sponsor an Early Day Motion calling on the government to change the cliff-edge nature of the motion for lower-income pensioners and to account for citizens with small occupational pensions that take them just above the threshold.   

Connor Naismith MP says he voted in favour of changing the Winter Fuel Payment eligibility rules on the basis the reduction would not affect the poorest pensioners (Canva).

Speaking on the May 21 announcement, Mr Naismith said: "I sincerely welcome the government's plans to revisit the Winter Fuel Allowance threshold.

"It is absolutely right that we support those who need it most. But importantly, the government should take the time to consider who those people are, and make sure the allowance is set appropriately.

"I am glad to see the Prime Minister is listening to the public on this and I will continue to vote with my conscience, in the best interests of my constituents and challenge the government where necessary." 

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