Denis Healey’s first law of politics advises ministers to stop digging when in a hole. The government should heed this advice. The proposal to withdraw the winter fuel allowance from 10 million pensioners is a significant issue. Keir Starmer and his ministers still have time to reverse this decision.
A quarter of elderly individuals who won’t turn on their heating this winter cite the loss of this benefit, worth up to £300, as the reason. The potential for these people to freeze in their homes is a preventable disaster.
Labour has an alternative that could save face. They could fund the allowance by taxing higher earners, closing tax loopholes used by the wealthy, and increasing low rates for capital gains and large inheritances.
Kevin Maguire: “Labour has inherited this problem. The standards set in place over the last 14 years are being eroded. Scrapping the £300 winter fuel allowance is a grave error—some individuals may opt to switch their central heating off, possibly leading to deaths. “.#GMB pic.twitter.com/fsoz1oHpdM
— brexit (@thebrexitdaily) September 18, 2024
A survey by Uswitch reveals that 1.7 million homes across all age groups might forgo heating this winter, which should be a serious concern for Downing Street. Labour inherited poor public finances and neglected services from the Tories. Difficult decisions are necessary, and someone will have to bear the cost, but it shouldn’t be the elderly who suffer from the cold.
Allowing MPs a free vote on assisted dying is a relatively simple part of Keir Starmer’s commitment to Esther Rantzen. A more challenging task, should Parliament decide to change the law, would be creating a system that protects vulnerable individuals and alleviates the concerns of those worried about the moral implications.
Given the lengthy parliamentary process, discussions should begin now to prepare for public consultation. The Princess of Wales’s first official engagement since starting cancer treatment is a notable event. It is positive that she is returning to work gradually. By prioritising health over duty, Kate sets a commendable example.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Experian explains a pension freeze as a change in pension benefit accumulation, limiting or halting accrual, impacting retirement plans and employee benefits significantly. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What is Denis Healey’s first law of politics?
Advising ministers in holes to stop digging.
Why is there concern about withdrawing the winter fuel allowance?
It risks causing elderly people to freeze in their homes.
What alternative does Labour have to cutting the winter fuel allowance?
Taxing higher earners, closing tax loopholes, and raising low rates for capital gains and inheritances.
Why is the Uswitch survey significant?
It found that 1.7 million homes could go without heating this winter.
What is notable about the Princess of Wales’s recent activity?
Her first meeting since starting cancer treatment, emphasizing health before duty.