Labour leader insists economic stability justifies restricting payments to only the most vulnerable pensioners.

Sir Keir Starmer has defended the Labour government’s proposal to limit the winter fuel allowance to the most in-need pensioners, describing the move as a “tough decision” that is necessary to stabilise the economy. This comes as Labour MP Rosie Duffield became the latest backbencher to publicly state she would not support the measure when it is put to a vote in the Commons.

The Prime Minister argued that this plan will help to balance the public finances and ensure the future security of the state pension triple lock, which guarantees a rise in pension payments each year. However, the controversial proposal, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in July, aims to restrict winter fuel payments to only those pensioners claiming pension credit and other means-tested benefits, cutting the number of eligible recipients by over 10 million, from 11.4 million to just 1.5 million. This reduction is expected to save £1.4 billion this year.

Despite facing increasing opposition within the Labour ranks, including several MPs voicing concerns, Sir Keir Starmer stood firm in his commitment, stating, “We have got to take tough decisions,” and highlighting the safeguards put in place for vulnerable pensioners through pension credit and housing benefits. He also reassured that stabilising the economy would create the conditions needed to uphold the triple lock on pensions.

The announcement led to a surge in pension credit applications, with a 115% increase in claims following the Government’s plan. Starmer added that while the decision was difficult, it was necessary for the long-term stability of the economy, which, in turn, would help improve public services and raise living standards.

Rosie Duffield, who represents Canterbury, joined other Labour MPs in opposing the move, though she said she would abstain from voting rather than opposing the Government outright, citing concerns about potential disciplinary action from the leadership. Meanwhile, 11 Labour MPs have signed a motion condemning the policy, calling it a “bureaucratic and unpopular means test.”