Alasdair Allan, SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, has described the reversal now expected from Keir Starmer’s Labour Government on winter fuel payments for pensioners as a 'pathetic but long-overdue U-turn.'

Currently, there is still little clarity on what the U-turn will actually involve, it is anticipated that the Westminster Government will amend the threshold for continued government support, allow more pensioners to qualify again for Winter Fuel Payments. 

Originally, some 10 million pensioners across England and Wales had lost out on the vital payment since the Labour government withdrew payments. 

Back in November 2024, the SNP Scottish Government announced it would use its limited budget and powers to ensure all pensioners across Scotland continued to receive a winter fuel payment, despite Labour’s determination to take it away at Westminster. 

The SNP have been pushing the UK Government for months to stop its cuts, as well as to intervene on the energy bill cap, which has continued to rise since last year’s General Election.

Following the news, Allan commented:

“I am relieved to see the Labour Government U-turn on these severe cuts, after mounting pressure from the SNP and from pensioners across the country. 

“Given Western Isles residents face the highest fuel bills and highest levels of fuel poverty across the UK, the UK Government must go further and finally use their reserved powers to lower fuel bills as they promised during the General Election campaign.

“Sadly, Scotland’s Labour MPs voted in favour of these cuts when they were first proposed, despite widespread criticism. 

“Unlike them, the SNP always put the needs of Scotland first. With the powers of independence, Scotland could create its own energy policies to reduce bills and protect pensioners.”