21 January 2010
‘Keep the Heating On’ – MP’s Message as Luton People Paid Out in Cold Snap
Margaret Moran MP can today tell vulnerable families in Luton not to worry about turning up the heat as the Government pays out millions in Cold Weather Payments.
Around £200 million in payments has been racked up so far this winter, with just over £70 million of this over the cold New Year’s weekend.
Margaret said;
“As the cold weather continues, I don’t want vulnerable people to feel left in the cold. I especially want the elderly to know that extra help is on the way.
“There are two ways we are helping this winter – with Winter Fuel payments of £250 or £400 for the over 80s, and 88,000 people in Bedfordshire getting the increased Cold Weather Payments of £25.
“Cold weather payments were last year increased to £25 from £8.50 per week. These payments are automatic where there are sub-zero temperatures over the course of seven consecutive days. Everyone in Great Britain who is entitled will get them and should not worry about turning their heating up.”
Nine new weather stations were introduced this year in a bid to provide a more accurate assessment for those affected.
As well as the Cold Weather payments, over 12.3 million older people will benefit from Winter Fuel payments, totalling about £2.7bn.
Related news stories
- April 24 Tax changes today mean Real Help for thousands in Luton South
- January 18 Winter Energy Saving Tips
- August 27 Margaret Welcomes a Budget for Stability and Opportunity as 13,320 families in Luton look set to gain from the increases in Child Benefit and much more
- August 27 MP Speaks Out To Families In Luton Feeling the Pinch of the Credit Crunch
- September 30 Jewish New Year message from the Prime Minister
