Barrett calls for automatic Winter Fuel payments

14 January 2010

John Barrett MP for Edinburgh West has today called for winter fuel allowance to be automatically distributed upon men reaching their 60th birthday.

To currently claim winter fuel allowance, one needs to phone the winter fuel hotline or download a claim form off of the internet and send it in the post.

Mr. Barrett said,

“Elderly people continue to face problems in registering for winter fuel payments and many forget that they are entitled to this benefit.”

“The automatic registration upon reaching the 60th birthday is the easiest way to ensure that everyone who is eligible to claim the benefit receives it.”

“The Government knows who is turning 60 through the PAYE system for those who are employed as well has having the details for those who are on benefits. Therefore, it should be fairly straightforward to pay it to the vast majority of 60 year old immediately after they turn 60.”

Mike Crockart, Liberal Democrat Candidate for Edinburgh West at the next election added,

“John is absolutely right to bring this matter to the attention of the Government. An automatic winter fuel payment would simplify the process for millions of people across the country and ensure that no one has to worry about whether they can afford to heat their home in the winter.”

ENDS