Social Security Advisory Committee: Winter Fuel Payment Debate

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Department: Department for Work and Pensions

Social Security Advisory Committee: Winter Fuel Payment

Alison Griffiths Excerpts
Tuesday 12th November 2024

(1 day, 10 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Emma Reynolds Portrait Emma Reynolds
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We are deploying an additional 500 staff to deal with the substantial increase—over 150%—in claims. That is the right thing to do. It is an operational focus for the Department to get through those claims as quickly as possible, to make sure that we get the help to those most in need.

Alison Griffiths Portrait Alison Griffiths (Bognor Regis and Littlehampton) (Con)
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The Social Security Advisory Committee estimated that more than 70% of people with a disability will lose their winter fuel payment this year. Does the hon. Lady really think that cutting benefits from this vulnerable group of pensioners is the right thing to do?

Emma Reynolds Portrait Emma Reynolds
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If the hon. Lady looks at the equality analysis, she will see that those with a disability will be disproportionately likely to retain the winter fuel payment. I urge her to have a look at that.