Labour Austerity Cuts Affect Almond Valley Pensioners

Labour Austerity Cuts Affect Almond Valley Pensioners

Scottish Government Urges Pensioners to Check Pension Credit Eligibility

The Labour UK government's decision to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment, without any consultation, will leave many pensioners in Almond Valley without equivalent support in Scotland.

This austerity-driven policy by Labour has resulted in an estimated £160 million being cut from the Scottish Government's budget. This undermines the devolution settlement and leaves no choice but to replicate the policy in Scotland.

Previously, Labour opposed a similar measure proposed by the Tories, stating that pensioners should not bear the brunt of economic failures. Now, they are imposing these cuts on Scottish pensioners.

The UK already has one of the worst pension rates in North West Europe, lagging behind countries like France and Spain. Pensioners are already struggling to make ends meet with the current cost of living.

Angela Constance MSP encourages pensioners to check their eligibility for pension credits to ensure they still receive the Winter Fuel Payment:

"The Labour UK government's decision to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment ensures that pensioners in Almond Valley will face the brunt of Westminster's economic chaos. This decision has cut the Scottish Government’s budget by an estimated £160 million, as Labour continues the Tories' policies, undermining devolution. I strongly encourage pensioners in Almond Valley to check if they are eligible for pension credit to ensure they receive the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment they are entitled to.

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