Labour MPs call for action on benefits after winter fuel U-turn

Labour MPs have used the government’s U-turn on winter fuel payments to renew their calls for planned benefit cuts to be reversed.

Backbenchers broadly welcomed the announcement pensioners in England and Wales with an annual income of £35,000 or less would now be eligible for up to £300 to help with energy bills this winter.

They thanked the government for listening to their concerns, arguing means testing was fair but that the threshold for the payment, which was previously for all pensioners, was set too low last year.

However, several urged ministers to also think again on planned cuts to disability payments, while others called for the two-child benefit cap to be scrapped.

Under planned…