Benefits cut for the elderly

The Prime Minister is facing demands to cut benefits paid to the elderly, primarily winter fuel payments.

The benefit gives everyone over the age of 65 a £200 cheque to towards their fuel costs, increasing to £300 for the over 80’s. This is given regardless of how much money they have and does not have to be spent on gas and electricity.

Iain Duncan-Smith has heavily criticised the scheme saying that well-off pensioners should return the benefit.  He said earlier this year, “If you honestly think it’s going to pay for your holiday then give it back, because it’s not what it was meant to do.”

It has been said that the winter fuel allowance is not negotiable until 2015 as part of the agreement with the Liberal Democrats.  The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said, “He stands by what is in the Coalition Agreement”.