Scottish Labour has announced plans to force a vote in Holyrood to re-design the Scottish Government’s winter fuel payments, following a cut to the scheme triggered by a UK Government decision.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves sparked a political storm shortly after taking office, revealing that winter fuel payments would now be means-tested.
This change resulted in reduced spending, ultimately undermining the Scottish Government’s original plan to provide a universal counterpart.
However, Scottish Labour revealed last week that if it wins the 2026 Holyrood election, it will reintroduce redesigned winter fuel payments, extending eligibility to more pensioners.
In a move aimed at accelerating this initiative, the party announced it would seek a vote on the issue during stage three of the Social Security (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill.
Amendments proposed by Scottish Labour would require ministers to create regulations ensuring all pensioners receive winter heating assistance.
The proposals would also allow for the recovery of any payments if the recipient’s household income surpasses a threshold set by ministers.
Currently, winter heating assistance, as outlined in the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018, provides financial aid to individuals to help meet heating costs during winter months. The proposed amendments would alter the devolved benefit, which the Scottish Government delayed until next year following the Chancellor’s announcement.
Scottish Labour’s social security spokesman, Paul O’Kane, stated: “Scottish Labour has been clear that if wins the 2026 election, we will reinstate the winter fuel payment for thousands of pensioners – but people shouldn’t have to wait that long.
“Next week will we have an opportunity to take a different approach in Scotland and ensure that every pensioner who needs a payment gets one.
O’Kane also criticised the SNP, saying, “The SNP has offered a lot of warm words on Winter Fuel Payments, so it would be a gross betrayal if the SNP fails to back these amendments.
“Already the SNP has failed to pass on to £41 million of support intended for the most vulnerable people in Scotland this winter.
“We have the money and the powers we need – now is the time for action.”
The Scottish Government has been contacted for comment.
