Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions she has had with stakeholders on the decision to withdraw eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments from those not in receipt of Pension Credit.

This Government is committed to pensioners – everyone in our society, no matter their working history or savings deserves a comfortable and dignified retirement.

The Department met with Age UK, the Local Government Association and Citizens Advice prior to the Chancellor’s statement, which included the Winter Fuel Payment announcement.

Given the substantial pressures faced by the public finances this year and next, the Government has had to make hard choices to bring the public finances back under control.

We know there are low-income pensioners who aren’t claiming Pension Credit, and we urge those people to apply. This will passport them to receive Winter Fuel Payment alongside other benefits – hundreds of pounds that could really help them. We will ensure that the poorest pensioners get the support they need.

The Government will work with external partners and local authorities to boost the uptake of Pension Credit and to target additional support to the poorest pensioners.