Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has defended Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ original decision to cut winter fuel payments and the subsequent partial U-turn. He told the BBC the chancellor would not apologise for withdrawing the payment from more than 10 million pensioners last year, arguing that she had to take measures to stabilise the economy. He said...
Charlotte Edwards Business reporter Getty Images More than three-quarters of pensioners will receive the winter fuel payment this year after a major policy U-turn. The decision from Chancellor Rachel Reeves means nine million pensioners in England and Wales with an annual income of £35,000 or less will now be eligible. People have spoken to us...
Ben Chu Policy and analysis correspondent, BBC Verify Getty Images The government’s decision to largely reverse its cuts to winter fuel payments has raised questions about its spending and savings plans – and its fiscal rules. BBC Verify has been looking at the the key numbers. What has changed on winter fuel? At the time...
Kevin Peachey Cost of living correspondent Getty Images Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed that more people will get the next winter fuel payment after a widely-expected u-turn over eligibility. The government was criticised for its 2024 decision to limit the payment to those receiving pension credit or another means-tested benefit, which meant millions of older...
Kevin Peachey Cost of living correspondent, BBC News Getty Images The government’s partial U-turn on winter fuel payments will be in place so more people receive the allowance this winter, the chancellor has said. Rachel Reeves cleared some uncertainty by announcing that “more people will get winter fuel payment this winter”. However, details of how...
Liv McMahon & Tom Gerken Technology reporters BBC A note on one Co-op store Some Co-op stores have been left with empty shelves as the retailer continues to feel the impact of a major cyber attack. Stores are open and trading, however some are unable to accept contactless payments – with signs on doors telling...
