Scottish pensioners getting raw deal on winter fuel payments - Alexander

9.24.17pm GMT Thu 24th Dec 2009

Scottish pensioners have a lower percentage of their bills met by the Winter Fuel Payment than the UK average, figures obtained by the Liberal Democrats show.

The situation is worst for Scotland's over-80s, for whom the WFP covers 38% of their annual fuel bill, compared to a UK average of 41%.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat MP for Danny Alexander MP: Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, Danny Alexander said:

"These figures suggest Scotland's pensioners are getting a raw deal when it comes to Winter Fuel Payments. Scotland's colder climate means the winter fuel payment doesn't go as far as in other parts of the country.

"Fuel poverty is highest for people, especially the elderly, who live in rural areas and particularly those who use heating oil to keep their homes warm. These groups have been last in line for Labour's paltry measures to tackle fuel poverty - these figures show they need to go to the front of the queue."

Notes:

The information was obtained through a Parliamentary Question, which can be found here: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200809/cmhansrd/cm091105/text/91105w0004.htm#09110565001472