What an exemplary idea from Martin Lewis in response to plans to limit winter fuel payments (Martin Lewis calls for rethink of plan to limit winter fuel payments, 23 August). If the government were to restrict the payment to any pensioner living in a property in council tax bands A, B, C or D, this would effectively means-test the benefit by excluding wealthy pensioners who don’t need it. It is not perfect, but is far better than relying on people claiming pension credit, which is a benefit not fit for purpose. The income and savings limits are extremely low and many pensioners who have never claimed anything during their lives are unlikely to apply for it.
Upsetting 12.6 million pensioners so early in the electoral cycle is not a good look. The chancellor should consider this option as soon as possible.
Garry Bond
Stoke-on-Trent
