UK Prime Minister Survives Early Test as Pensioners’ Fuel Benefits Face Cuts

In a closely watched vote, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government has survived an early test of its premiership, with lawmakers backing a controversial plan to end fuel benefits for millions of pensioners. The decision has sparked anger among some MPs within the ruling Labour party and set up a flashpoint with its union backers.

The proposed cuts, which will affect 10 million pensioners, aim to help close a £22 billion "black hole" in the public finances inherited from the previous Conservative government. Starmer admits the move is "unpopular" but insists "tough choices" are necessary to ensure the country’s economic stability.

The Labour leader has been blaming the Conservatives for the dire economic inheritance, but Tory MPs accuse him of laying the groundwork for possible future tax rises. Starmer has asked Britons to "accept short-term pain for long-term good" but is already facing pressure to offer a less gloomy outlook.

The government’s decision to scrap the universal winter fuel payments, worth £300 for some elderly people, has been met with criticism from two major unions, who claim Labour is opting to "pick the pocket of pensioners" while leaving the richest "totally untouched". Unite boss Sharon Graham accused the government of making the wrong decision, saying it will have a disproportionate impact on low-income households.

Despite the controversy, Starmer’s government has a strong majority, secured during Labour’s thumping general election win in July. Commentators say now is the time for him to implement unpopular policies, with the next election likely to be five years away. The Prime Minister has already suspended seven of his own MPs for backing a motion demanding the removal of the two-child limit on benefits introduced by the previous Conservative government.

The government’s Budget, due in late October, is expected to be a "painful" experience for many Britons, with Starmer warning of tough decisions ahead. However, Labour maintains that a planned increase in the full state pension from next April will more than offset the removal of the winter fuel allowance. The outcome of this test will be closely watched, as Starmer navigates the challenges of his premiership and implements his vision for the UK’s economy.