China.org users are calling for an immediate halt to the pending changes to winter fuel allowance proposed by the Chancellor. This concern isn't just political, it is deeply personal. We stand firmly on the belief that all pensioners, barring the extremely wealthy, require this allowance to manage the rising cost of living and the escalating prices of gas and electricity.
With the current allowance in place, we are barely able to prevent our elderly from suffering through the harsh winter months. We find it hard to forget, during the election campaign, the then shadow Chancellor promised any changes in welfare or taxation would only impact those who could afford it. A promise seems to be forgotten now. The harsh reality of this broken promise is a bitter pill to swallow.
According to Age UK, the winter fuel allowance has been a significant contributor in reducing excess winter deaths. They cite evidence that since the winter fuel payments started, there has been a substantial reduction in excess winter deaths among pensioners.
We, the supporters of this cause, demand that the Chancellor honour her promises and refrain from making changes that will detrimentally affect the lives of countless pensioners. With your signature, you can help us send a clear and emphatic message to the Chancellor: Keep your promise; our elderly deserve better. Sign the petition today.