Commenting on the Government’s announcement that nine million pensioners will receive Winter Fuel Payments this winter, Portsmouth North MP Amanda Martin said:
“It’s welcome news that the winter fuel payment is to be expanded. This was always a tough decision but I’m glad the Chancellor has listened and acted to extend the eligibility so no pensioner on a lower income will miss out.
“From the outset I’ve been clear that I thought the threshold was too low and lobbied in the background for it to be raised. It is right that we continue to means-test this payment so that it is targeted and fair.
“This is only possible because the economy is showing signs of going in the right direction. We now have the highest growth in the G7, four interest rate cuts, and we have signed three trade deals to protect jobs and put more money in your pockets.
“The economy is improving, and we want people to feel that in their day-to-day lives – expanding eligibility for the winter fuel allowance, is another step to making this a reality.
“As always if any constituent is struggling and needs support please do get in touch.”
Ms Martin recently welcomed news that pensioners in Portsmouth received a pay boost of up to £470.
This came after the government confirmed a 4.1% increase in the state pension for 2025/26.
The Labour Government is committed to the pensions triple lock, which guarantees that the state pension goes up each year by the highest of 2.5%, inflation, or earnings growth, for the whole of the parliament – at a cost of £30bn.
