PM’s Winter Fuel Shift Fails to Go Far Enough – Full U-turn Needed, Say Welsh Conservatives

The Prime Minister has today flirted with the possibility of reinstating the winter fuel support for some pensioners, following sustained pressure, including a pledge from the Welsh Conservatives to introduce a dedicated Welsh Winter Fuel Payment.

The change of heart may see some additional pensioners regain eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment after last year’s decision to restrict automatic access. However, the measures fall short of a full reversal, leaving too many older people still uncertain about the support they can expect next winter.

This announcement comes amid growing concern over fuel poverty and the impact of rising energy bills, particularly in rural areas like Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, where pensioners face higher heating costs and limited access to alternative support.

Welsh Conservatives had already committed to introducing a specific Winter Fuel Payment for Wales, a proposal that helped drive momentum for change at Westminster.

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s statement, Samuel Kurtz MS said:

“Supporting our pensioners through the coldest months of the year should never have been in question. While today’s words from the PM are a step in the right direction, it simply doesn’t go far enough — we need a full U-turn to restore confidence and ensure no pensioner is left behind.”

“The Welsh Conservatives made our position clear: we would introduce a Welsh Winter Fuel Payment to plug the gap and protect our pensioners. Despite today’s announcement, the job is not done. We’ll keep up the pressure until a fair and comprehensive system is in place.”