Roz McCall MSP, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Member of Scottish Parliament for the Mid Scotland and Fife region, has condemned Labour’s "betrayal" of pensioners following the House of Commons vote confirming cuts to winter fuel payments.
Roz McCall says the winter fuel payments, worth between £100-£300 for pensioners across Mid Scotland and Fife, were a crucial lifeline for many facing rising costs. She expressed her disappointment that Labour chose to means-test these payments, stating that they have made a "wrong and harmful choice."
Roz highlighted recent estimates that reveal the "devastating impact" these cuts will have. In Mid Scotland and Fife alone, over 100,000 pensioners will lose this vital support to get through the colder months.
Roz McCall also criticised the SNP for following Labour’s lead and confirming similar cuts in Scotland. She argued that the SNP’s financial mismanagement over 17 years has left them with no choice but to impose these cuts, which unfairly target vulnerable pensioners.
Roz added that both Labour and the SNP must “accept responsibility” for the cuts and why they have targeted pensioners in such a “shameful” way.
Roz McCall MSP said:
“Labour's decision to cut winter fuel payments to over a 100,000 pensioners in Mid Scotland and Fife is a shocking betrayal. They pledged to keep these payments during the election, but they have disgracefully broken that promise. This decision will have a devastating impact on pensioners across our region who depend on this support to keep warm during winter.”
“The SNP is just as culpable, choosing to follow Labour’s lead instead of standing up for our pensioners. After 17 years of financial mismanagement, they are now targeting those who need our help the most. Both Labour and the SNP need to take full responsibility for these shameful cuts and explain to pensioners why they have been singled out.”
“The Scottish Conservatives are firmly opposed to these cuts and I will always be on the side of pensioners in Mid Scotland and Fife.“
