Pensions triple lock increase wiped out by Winter Fuel Payment cut and rising bills

EMBARGOED UNTIL 22:30 SUNDAY 6 APRIL

The Liberal Democrats have warned that the increase in the state pension today has been almost entirely wiped out by last week's bill increases and cuts to the winter fuel payment.

The basic state pension is due to rise by £361.40, or £722.80 for a household with two pensioners.

But analysis by the Lib Dems show this is being entirely wiped out by rising bills and the loss of the winter fuel payment for most pensioners. A typical household with one pensioner born before 1944 will see a combined hit of £720, once you factor in the loss of the £300 winter fuel payment along with rising energy bills, water bills, council tax and mobile and broadband bills.

Liberal Democrat Work and Pensions Spokesperson Steve Darling said:

"The triple lock is being wiped out by a triple hit of winter fuel payment cuts, council tax hikes and rising bills.

"This Labour government has treated pensioners appallingly, leaving them cold in the winter and vulnerable to price hikes in the spring.

“Liberal Democrats are proud we brought in the triple lock and lifted so many pensioners out of poverty. But we are deeply worried this government is reversing that progress and leaving pensioners without the support they need.”

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

A link to our analysis can be found here