A Winter Fuel payment update has been issued over the £200 or £300 payments potentially being SAVED after a legal challenge. A legal challenge being heard in court this week could see the new Labour Party government forced to u-turn over axing the payouts for state pensioners.
A legal case which was launched on behalf of Scottish pensioner couple Peter and Florence Fanning will be heard in the Court of Session this Wednesday, January 15. Speaking at a press conference at the launch of the challenge in September, Mr Fanning said: “We intend to sue both the London and Scottish governments, since both are guilty through action and inaction of damaging the welfare of pensioners.
“We are hoping to be successful, given the manifest injustice involved, however my work as a trade unionist and shop steward has taught me that some battles are worth fighting regardless of the outcome – I believe this is one such battle.”
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After the announcement that a full hearing would be conducted on January 15, a UK Government spokesperson said: “We are committed to supporting pensioners, with millions set to see their state pension rise by up to £1,700 this Parliament through our commitment to the triple lock.
“Over a million pensioners will still receive the winter fuel payment, and our drive to boost pension credit take-up has already seen a 152 per cent increase in claims. Many others will also benefit from the £150 Warm Home Discount to help with their energy bills over winter.”
The case asks the court to rule whether the decision was unlawful, which would then allow the petitioners to ask the court to, in effect, set aside the policy and restore the Winter Fuel Payment to all. The case’s argument rests on the accusation that both governments failed to adequately consult with those of State Pension age on the change and did not release an equality impact assessment on the changes.