Dr. Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley, has welcomed the Government’s decision to reevaluate its proposed cuts to Winter Fuel Payments.
In July 2024, the Labour Government announced plans to restrict eligibility to those on means-tested benefits – a change that risked removing up to £300 a year from around 10 million pensioners, including an estimated 17,140 in Solihull West & Shirley.
Dr. Shastri-Hurst has consistently opposed the proposals, raising the impact of the policy in Parliament, leading a local petition on Shirley High Street, and supporting constituents affected by the changes.
Commenting on the announcement, Dr Shastri-Hurst said:
I welcome the Government’s decision to reevaluate this deeply flawed policy. Winter Fuel Payments provide vital support for pensioners, particularly those on fixed incomes, during the colder months.
However, this campaign is not over. The Prime Minister has yet to confirm how many pensioners will have their payments restored, or when. I will continue pressing for full clarity and fairness.
