The Conservative Party is tapping into public discontent over Labour’s decision to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners to boost their own fundraising efforts.
In an email to supporters, the party urged donations to campaign against the controversial policy, which could leave 10 million pensioners without support. The appeal comes as the Tories face declining donations, raising £16 million between April and June—significantly less than Labour’s £26 million in the same period.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ policy change means only those claiming pension credit will receive winter fuel payments, worth up to £300. The cut was passed by the Commons, despite 50 Labour MPs failing to vote.
The Conservatives have seized the moment, describing Labour’s actions as forcing pensioners into “a cruel choice between the clothes on their back or the heat in their homes.”
The Tory fundraising email accused Labour leader Keir Starmer of being out of touch, contrasting his comfortable lifestyle with the struggles of pensioners, while urging supporters to help fight the policy. “Over 100,000 people have signed our petition, but we need more,” the email stated. Recipients were directed to donate via a link, with options for various contribution amounts.
Labour hit back, with a source criticising the Conservatives for fundraising on the back of a crisis they claim was caused by the previous Tory government. “Rather than filling their own coffers, the shameless Conservatives should acknowledge the catastrophic mess they left for this Labour government to fix,” the source said.
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