Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Dodds of Duncairn and Lord Barker of Battle

Thursday 1st November 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Nigel Dodds (Belfast North) (DUP)]

Following the reductions in winter fuel payments that the Government have implemented, many senior citizen households are finding it difficult to meet bills, especially for lump-sum payments for home heating oil. What are the Government doing to address that problem?

[Gregory Barker]

I am afraid I did not catch the last part of the right hon. Gentleman’s question about heating oil.

[Mr Dodds]

What is the Minister doing to address the fact that, as a result of his policy, senior citizen households are feeling the effects of cuts to winter fuel payments?

[Gregory Barker]

As the right hon. Gentleman may know, more than 2 million of the most vulnerable households—primarily pensioners—will receive the warm home discount in addition to winter fuel payments. The Government are taking record action to ensure that our support is directed at those who need it most, and we are proud of our record.