Scarborough and Whitby MP Alison Hume has been questioned by Eastfield Councillor Tony Randerson about her recent vote against a motion opposing the cutting the winter fuel allowance for pensioners.
The government had put forward a plan to restrict the payments to all but the poorest pensioners, but last month opponents put forward a motion in the house of commons aiming to block the cuts. The block was defeated by 348 votes to 228.
Scarborough and Whitby's Labour MP, Alison Hume voted against the block, Filey MP Kevin Hollinrake and Bridlington MP, Charlie Dewhirst, both Conservatives, voted in support of the block
At a meeting this week Councillor Randerson highlighted the impact this decision would have on a "masses and masses of pensioners" in Hume's constituency.
In her response, Alison Hume acknowledged the difficult situation, admitting that it wasn't the ideal start for a new government. However, she defended her decision by pointing to the "22 billion pound black hole" inherited from the previous administration, stating that difficult decisions were necessary to stabilize the country's finances.
Alison Hume emphasized her efforts to mitigate the impact on pensioners, citing three special surgery sessions she facilitated, connecting constituents with Citizens Advice advisors. These sessions helped identify individuals who weren't claiming available benefits and guided them through the application process. She further highlighted the government's commitment to extending the household support fund with an additional £421 million to support vulnerable families.
Reassuring constituents, the MP stressed the government's commitment to protecting the triple lock, which ensures that state pensions increase each year. She stated that this measure would result in an increase of "around £1,700 more" to the full new state pension by the end of the parliamentary term.
Alison Hume concluded by reiterating the Labour government's responsibility to "put this country on a fiscal shore footing," emphasising their commitment to rebuilding the economy for the benefit of all, including pensioners.
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