Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Watch: Starmer faces Sunak at PMQs after MPs approve winter fuel payment cuts

Holly Patrick
Wednesday 11 September 2024 15:33 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Watch as Sir Keir Starmer faced Rishi Sunak at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, 11 September, following MPs’ approval of cuts to winter fuel payments.

Labour has been accused of punishing pensioners after MPs voted to cut the allowance for millions across the country.

On Tuesday, a Conservative motion aimed at blocking the policy was rejected with a majority of 120.

The plan cleared the Commons with just one Labour rebel voting against it but dozens of MPs on the Government benches were missing in action.

The government insisted the proposed changes are needed to fill a £22 billion “black hole” in public finances left behind by previous Conservative governments.

Labour’s decision means that only those on Pension Credit or some other benefits in England and Wales will receive the payment, saving the Exchequer around £1.5 billion a year.

Rachel Reeves insisted it is “absolutely right” to means-test the benefit, worth up to £300, in order to address the “black hole” in the public finances.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in