North West Leicestershire MP Amanda Hack says she voted with the Government over plans to cut Winter Fuel Payments - following assurances of additional support for pensioners facing hardship

The MP representing Ashby de la Zouch supported the Government and voted against an opposition motion calling for the decision to to be reversed. The motion was defeated by 348 votes to 228.

But now, Ms Hack has written to constituents outlining her decision.

She said: "The new government will always be honest with you about the nation's finances and the tough choices that we must take to protect Britain's economic stability.

"The Chancellor has been forced to take difficult steps to fill the hole inherited from the previous Conservative government – with overspending, amounting to £22bn this year alone. This includes the decision to target Winter Fuel Payments to the poorest pensioners.

"Along with most of my Labour colleagues, I supported the Government in today's (Tuesday's) vote against an opposition motion calling for the move to be overturned.

"Nonetheless I want to reassure you that I made my decision after careful thought and productive discussions with colleagues who, like me, want to see fewer pensioners in poverty. 

"That's why the Government is committed to protecting the 'triple lock' on pensions over the lifetime of this parliament.

"This guarantee saw the state pension rise by over £900 this year. The state pension is projected to increase by over £1,000 in the next five years for around 12 million pensioners."

She also outlined other methods of help for those in need.

The MP added: "We have also announced a six-month extension to the Household Support Fund, providing a £421m boost to local authorities.

"This will give extra cash to local authorities to support those facing hardship with living costs.

"It can help vulnerable residents with energy and water bills, food and other essential items.

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"We are also prioritising long-term support for pensioners through our Warm Homes Plan, which will support investment in low-carbon heating and upgrade millions of homes over this parliament, helping reduce fuel poverty levels.  

"I want to be clear that Winter Fuel Payments will continue for anyone receiving Pension Credit. This guarantees a minimum income level for pensioners and automatically unlocks other benefits, including a free TV licence, the Warm Home discount and support for housing costs.   

"Thousands of eligible households are not claiming Pension Credit. I am determined to ensure that all those eligible for Pension Credit get it.

"I have already written to the leader of North West Leicestershire District Council, Cllr Richard Blunt, to request his help identifying eligible households that have yet to claim. I am pleased that council officers are already engaging with the Department for Work and Pensions.

"I look forward to working with councillors from all parties to ensure those eligible receive payments alongside any other unclaimed support. 

"A total of 450 additional staff have been redeployed to the Department of Work and Pensions to support the anticipated surge in claims, which must be submitted by December 16. Successful claims will be backdated by three months."

She added that dedicated constituency surgeries will commence in October to support these efforts.

Anyone in North West Leicestershire worried about their circumstances is invited to make an appointment by emailing [email protected] .

She said: "In the meantime, you, your friends, family and neighbours can check if you or they are eligible for additional support by visiting www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility or calling the Pension Credit claim line at 0800 99 1234."