Martin Lewis slams ‘unnecessarily punitive’ plans to change winter fuel payments

Martin Lewis has called Labour’s plans to cut winter fuel payments “unnecessarily punitive” for the poorest pensioners in the UK. The founder of Money Saving Expert expressed serious concerns over the proposed changes when speaking on Times Radio.

He urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reconsider the plans, which would limit eligibility for winter fuel allowance. Mr Lewis acknowledged the need for cuts during challenging economic times, but he did criticise the current plan's harsh impact on vulnerable retirees, the Express reports.

“If you ask me, do I support ending the universality of the winter fuel payment where we’re in tough economic stretches, yes, I support ending universality," he said. "But do I support a very tight means testing that is also ineffective even for the poorest pensioners? No, I don’t support it."

READ MORE: Winter fuel payment vote LIVE as MPs decide on controversial cuts

The financial expert emphasised that the proposed means testing system would disproportionately harm pensioners already struggling with the rising cost of living. He called for the introduction of measures to ensure that those most in need of assistance would not be left behind.

Mr Lewis said: "The system that’s being put in place is not fair, is not just, and it is unnecessarily punitive to the poorest pensioners, and it needs tweaking." Despite his recommendations, Lewis expressed doubt that Labour would change its course.

He added: “I don't feel particularly optimistic. I think that for some reason the government has nailed its colours to the mast on this one and said ‘we’re doing it,’ and I’m worried.”

The winter fuel payment, a vital support mechanism during colder months, has