Scottish Labour has made a commitment to reinstate the Winter Fuel Payment if they win the next Holyrood election. This decision marks a significant U-turn for Anas Sarwar, who initially supported the cut made to the payment by his own Labour Government. The move to end the universal Winter Fuel Payment was announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in July, prompting Sarwar to suggest that Scotland could benefit from implementing a means-tested approach.
However, in October, Sarwar’s group of MSPs voted against a motion in Holyrood calling on the UK Government to reverse the cuts to the payments. This decision was met with concerns that the policy was negatively impacting Scottish Labour’s standing with voters. As a result, Sarwar recently announced a change in direction, stating that his party would reintroduce the Winter Fuel Payment.
It has been revealed that Scottish Labour intends to reintroduce a universal Winter Fuel Payment, with adjustments based on income planned for the future. The goal is to ensure that every pensioner receives a payment, although it will be scaled back for wealthier individuals. This announcement comes just days before three council by-elections in Glasgow, where Labour will be defending three seats following the resignation of newly elected MPs from the local authority.
Sarwar emphasized that a Scottish Labour government would reinstate the Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners in Scotland, highlighting the availability of additional resources through the Household Support Fund. He also expressed the party’s intention to reclaim devolved power from the DWP, reinstate the payment, and establish a fairer system to ensure that those in need receive support.
The decision to end universal fuel payments in Scotland was a result of the UK Government’s actions, forcing the Scottish Government’s hand. Under the new plans, the Winter Fuel Payment will be tied to Pension Credit, leading to potential loss of the payment for up to 900,000 Scots. Sarwar has attributed losses in council by-elections in Edinburgh and Dundee to this cut, echoing concerns about the impact on vulnerable individuals.
With the upcoming presentation of the draft budget on December 4, parties at Holyrood are engaging in discussions to reach an agreement that will support the Scottish Government’s financial plans. Reeves’ announcement of additional funding for the Scottish Government in the Budget has bolstered Sarwar’s belief that there is enough financial support to facilitate the reinstatement of the Winter Fuel Payment. This move by Scottish Labour reflects a shift in approach and a commitment to prioritizing support for pensioners in Scotland.
