Winter fuel payment cuts will save 'significant sums of money', claims Cambridge MP
MPs are due to vote on the Government plans today
Plans to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners would not be an easy decision, according to Cambridge MP Daniel Zeichner.
MPs are due to vote today on whether or not the Government's plans to reduce the number of pensioners that receive up to £300 a year as part of the scheme should be stopped.
If the plans are passed, the Government wants to introduce a means test for those wishing to apply for winter fuel payments, which includes a 243-question form.
"You have to make difficult decisions sometimes"
Mr Zeichner, a Labour MP and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Minister, said where his vote will lie.
"I'm a member of the Government so of course I will support it, but I would support if even if I wasn't because the truth is you do have to make difficult decisions sometimes, and sadly that's the position we're in," he said.
"I think the the challenge is the people who are just above the level of getting support through other parts of the pensions system.
"Significant sums of money can be saved here, and frankly every part of Government is going to have to come forward with savings."
The Government had resisted a vote on the controversial plans, which would see those who claim pension credits eligible for the payment that helps pensioners pay for their heating bills during the winter months.
Lucy Powell, leader of the House of Commons, then announced a debate on the matter would take place on September 10 followed by a vote after pressure from MPs who oppose the plans.
Winter fuel payment plans will 'protect public services' - Zeichner
Mr Zeichner believes many people understand why the Government is deciding to put the plans in place.
"I think most people will look at it and think 'we wish this wasn't happening', but the truth is I think they also understand exactly as we set out before the election that there were going to be difficult decisions," he added.
"It (The plans) means we can protect some of the public services they depend on and my belief is large amounts of money going to people who don't need is not a good way of spending public money,
"I think most people want to see a stable and growing economy.
"I understand why people are concerned; it's very important we make sure people who are eligible for help and support get it and that's why the Chancellor will be looking to tackle pensioner poverty."