Labour MP Fred Thomas has told GB News that pensioners in his Plymouth constituency understand the reasoning behind cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment, despite frustrations.
Speaking on the channel, Thomas said: "I've spoken to pensioners in my constituency, and they understand the decision. There is concern about it, of course, because we're talking about money that people used to have in their pocket."
The MP for Plymouth Moor View acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but defended it as necessary given the economic challenges inherited from the previous government.
"I'm absolutely furious that we've had to do this. The economic mess we've inherited is a disgrace to this country," Thomas stated.
Fred Thimas said he is "furious" they have had to make the choice
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He emphasised that the most vulnerable pensioners would still receive support, saying: "The most needy absolutely, will still have the money in their pocket."
Labour has a commitment to pensioners through the triple lock on pensions, which he argues will be more valuable in the long term.
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"Labour's completely on the side of pensioners and completely on the side of the economy, because it's growth that is going to get us out of the situation that the conservatives have left us in," he said.
The MP explained that upon entering government, Labour discovered "unfunded commitments" in multiple departments, representing a "black hole in the economy".
He stressed the need for "bold action" to address these challenges, stating: "We've set fiscal rules. What can never happen again is for government to introduce a completely unexamined budget, which we saw the Conservatives do with Liz Truss that crashed the economy."
Thomas acknowledged the human impact of the decisions but maintained his support for the Chancellor's approach.
The money is coming out of pensioners pockets
PAChancellor Rachel Reeves defended the tough decisions in her speech at the Labour conference, insisting there would be "no return to austerity".
She told delegates: "Yes, we must deal with the Tory legacy and that means tough decisions, but I won't let that dim our ambition for Britain."
However, the conference was marked by protests over the winter fuel payment cuts. Boos were heard as complaints were raised about a debate on union calls to reverse the cuts not taking place on Monday.
Unite chief Sharon Graham called the ministers "cruel", while former shadow chancellor John McDonnell said it was a "terrible mistake".
Despite the backlash, Reeves remained defiant, stating: "I will not duck those decisions. Not for political expediency. Not for personal advantage."
Rachel Reeves at the Labour party conferenceGB NewsThe Winter Fuel Payment cuts will affect nearly 10 million pensioners across England and Wales, who will miss out on the £300 boost. Chancellor Reeves justified the decision, citing a £22 billion "black hole" in public finances.
She told the conference: "I made the choice to means test the winter fuel payment, so that it is only targeted at those most in need."
Reeves emphasised the retention of the state pension triple lock, stating: "Already, the triple lock means that the pension this year is worth £900 more than a year ago, I'll announce at the Budget probably another increase of around £460 next April."
The Chancellor also highlighted increased take-up of pension credit, with applications rising from 3,000 to over 10,000 per week, ensuring more eligible pensioners receive support.