Tim Farron votes against cut to Winter Fuel Allowance

This afternoon, Cumbrian MP Tim Farron voted against controversial plans to cut the Winter Fuel Allowance.

The Winter Fuel Payment - which is worth up to £300 - has made a difference for many older people worried about being able to afford both heating and eating.

According to the charity Age UK, around two million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it and will be in serious trouble as a result.

It comes as average household energy bills are set to increase by 10% next month, up £149 a year.

However the plans were voted through by 348 votes to 228.

Speaking after the vote, Tim said: “There are many people who aren’t eligible for pension credit but for who the Winter Fuel Allowance has been a lifeline.

“Be in no doubt, there will many pensioners forced to choose between eating and heating this winter as a result of this move.

“I was proud to vote against these appalling plans and will keep fighting to stop them in any way that I can.”