Pensioners Challenge Winter Fuel Payment Cuts

**Pensioners Challenge Government Cuts to Winter Fuel Payments**

A pensioner couple in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, is taking a stand against government cuts to the winter fuel payment.

Peter and Florence Fanning have initiated legal proceedings in the Court of Session against the Scottish Government and the UK Work and Pensions Secretary with the assistance of Govan Law Centre.

Recently, Chancellor Rachel Reeves made an announcement that the winter fuel payment would now only be accessible to individuals on pension credit or other benefits. The Scottish government, which was on track to take control of that power, also announced a similar delay.

If the case proceeds, the court will be tasked with determining whether the decision was unlawful and, if so, to overturn it and revert to the original system.

Mr Fanning, aged 73, expressed, “We plan to take legal action against both the London and Scottish governments, as both are responsible for harming the welfare of pensioners through their actions and inactions. We are optimistic about our chances of success due to the clear injustice involved. Nonetheless, my experience as a trade unionist and shop steward has taught me that some battles are worth fighting, regardless of the outcome – and I believe this is one of those battles.”

Rachel Moon, a partner at Govan Law Centre, remarked, “The government ought to have conducted a thorough evaluation of this policy and the resultant decisions, considering their impact on individuals with protected characteristics such as age and disability, impacting an estimated 10 million people.”

First Minister John Swinney stated, “I believe the government has taken necessary and appropriate actions to comply with our legal obligations and operate within our means. However, these matters are now being deliberated in the courts, and we will participate in that process accordingly.”

A spokesperson for the UK government responded, “Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains steadfast, with millions set to witness a rise of £1,700 in their new state pension during this Parliament, thanks to our commitment to the triple lock system. In light of the challenging state of public finances we inherited, we must direct our support to those most in need. While over a million pensioners will still benefit from the winter fuel payment, many others will also receive the £150 warm home discount to address their energy costs during winter.”