A GB News report has exposed that Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, the minister behind removing winter fuel payments for 10 million pensioners, has been claiming nearly £4,000 in heating costs for her second home—paid for by taxpayers. The news has sparked outrage, with many calling it unfair and hypocritical, especially as thousands of elderly people struggle to afford heating this winter.
The winter fuel payment, which helped pensioners with energy bills, was scrapped by Ms. Kendall’s department earlier this year. Critics argue this decision has left some of the most vulnerable people in society unable to heat their homes. Meanwhile, Ms. Kendall’s own heating costs for a property in her Leicester West constituency were reimbursed through parliamentary expenses.
These claims are allowed under current rules, which let MPs with constituencies outside London claim expenses for second homes. However, many say it doesn’t look right. Political commentator Peter Spencer told GB News, “Even if it follows the rules, it’s hard for people to accept when they’re struggling to pay their bills. It feels wrong.”
Adding to the controversy, Ms. Kendall is married to a wealthy banker and also owns a high-end property in London’s Notting Hill. Critics believe that, given her financial situation, she could afford to cover her own second-home energy bills instead of claiming them from taxpayers.
The decision to cut winter fuel payments has been widely criticized. Many believe there were better options, like taxing wealthier recipients instead of scrapping the payments completely. GB News presenters pointed out that this situation shows a disconnect between politicians and the public. “How can you expect people to trust you when you take away their support and still claim money for yourself?” one commentator asked.
For pensioners, this winter could be devastating. Over 100,000 older people may fall into poverty because of rising energy costs. Meanwhile, the government is facing growing anger for its handling of the issue, with people questioning whether politicians truly understand the struggles of ordinary citizens.
This story adds to ongoing frustrations about how some MPs use taxpayer money for their own benefits, while ordinary people bear the brunt of cuts and rising costs. Many are calling for stricter rules and greater accountability from those in power.
