Jo Platt MP votes with government to cut pensioner's winter fuel costs

With Labour announcing that they were planning to cut the winter fuel payments to all but the poorest pensioners, the move proved extremely controversial as opposition parties voted to block the cuts.

52 Labour MPs did not take part in the vote, and one Labour MP, Jon Trickett, voted against the government, but the vote passed by 348 votes to 228. 

Leigh and Atherton MP, Jo Platt, voted with the government to cut the payments to those not receiving pension credit. Those who are eligible for the "means tested" pension credit will still receive the £200 or £300 top ups in November and December.

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348 MPs voted with the government on the controversial policy (Image: PA)
Ahead of the controversial vote, the recently elected Ms Platt explained her decisions for voting with the government, with Labour making the move in an attempt to fill a "black hole" in public finances.

In a statement published on social media, Jo Platt MP said: "[The] vote on winter fuel payments will be difficult, but making hard decisions is what Labour was elected to do.

"Later today I will be voting for something which no Labour MP came into politics to do - means testing the winter fuel payment for pensioners.

"The very fact that my colleagues and I will be making this decision is evidence of just how tough governing, in the wake of fourteen years of Tory economic chaos, will be.

"For me, decisions like this aren't about abstract facts and figures. I take every email, phone call, and letter from residents deeply personally.

"I've seen how a Labour Government can change people's lives for the better and that's the reason why I got into politics.

"The economic inheritance of this government is far worse that what was forecast, and it leaves us with no good choices.

"That's why I find it infuriating to have to counter Tory attacks about Labour's plan to remove winter fuel payments from those pensioners with higher incomes. After all, it is their economic failure which has forced Labour's hand."

Ms Platt also spoke against the "misinformation" surrounding the winter fuel debate, explaining that the means-tested pension credit targets those most in need.

The Leigh and Atherton MP further explained that the energy price cap is lower than it was last year, and that state pensions increased by £900 earlier this year. Labour says it is committed to further raising pensioner's incomes in the year ahead, with the 'triple lock' taking state pensions above inflation.

People are encouraged to check if they are eligible for pension credit here or by calling 0800 99 1234.