Tim Farron backs Lib Dem motion to block Winter Fuel Payments cut

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron has signed a motion in Parliament aimed at blocking the Government’s controversial plans to cut the Winter Fuel Allowance.

The Winter Fuel Payment - which is worth up to £300 - has made a difference for many older people worried about being able to afford both heating and eating.

According to the charity Age UK, around two million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it and will be in serious trouble as a result.

It comes as average household energy bills are set to increase by 10% in October, up £149 a year.

Tim said: “This winter, pensioners in Cumbria facing high energy bills must be able to heat their homes. That’s why the winter fuel payment is so important for millions of households across the country.

“The Chancellor’s changes to winter fuel payments will massively add to those worries.

“It’s absolutely vital that the Government think again over this policy which will push so many pensioners into desperate hardship.”