A SENIOR Labour councillor has spoken out against cuts to winter fuel payments.

Sir Keir Starmer’s government has faced a backlash over its decision to introduce means-testing to the payments, which means millions of pensioners will miss out on the benefit.

City and county councillor Richard Udall said he hopes the government uses the upcoming budget as a chance to put things right.

“I understand the reasons for the decision, the last government left us in a real mess,” said Cllr Udall, “but this is not the way to resolve the situation, it’s created alarm, stress and upset a lot of residents.

“Clearly, the poorest pensioners will still receive the benefit, but it’s always those just above the threshold who will be worse off, pensioners with small occupational pensions, who have seen their cost of living expenses increase far beyond their income.

READ MORE: Cuts to winter fuel payments 'a disgrace' say councillors

READ MORE: Fuel payment cuts: Pensioner's worry at being 'left behind'

“I hope the government will use the budget to address these concerns and take measures to reduce the impact or to think again about the proposal.”

Worcestershire councillors wrote to the government last month urging it to reverse its decision, but Cllr Udall and other Labour councillors voted against the idea.

He now appears to have had a change of heart and said that while efficiencies need to be made “economic efficiency can only be met with social justice”.

    What are your thoughts?    
        
    You can send a letter to the editor to have your say by clicking here.    
        
    Letters should not exceed 250 words and local issues take precedence.    
        

“It’s a sign of political maturity to admit mistakes, to make changes and to recognise consequences of actions,” he said.

“I sincerely hope the coming budget will include measures to address the injustices caused and the upset and anger which has been felt.

“As Labour councillors, we are close to the ground, we hear the anger and understand the concerns. Doing nothing is not an option.  

“I’m proud of the government and can see so much potential for new hope and change. As a supporter I hope that change can include recognition of mistakes.”

The Prime Minister has said the cut to fuel payments is needed in order to help fill a £22bn black hole inherited from the previous government.