John Swinney ‘actively considering’ bringing back universal winter fuel payment in Scottish Budget

John Swinney is currently giving serious thought to the potential reintroduction of universal winter fuel payments in the upcoming Scottish Budget. According to government sources, this move is being considered in response to Chancellor Rachel Reeves cutting the payment for approximately 90% of older Scots. Reeves’ decision to mean-test the payment in order to address a £22bn deficit has sparked outrage and is being held responsible for a decline in Scottish Labour’s popularity. However, the SNP Government may add to Labour’s troubles by considering reinstating the universal payment.

Although the benefit is devolved to Holyrood, it will be managed by Whitehall this winter, resulting in the cut moving forward. Nonetheless, insiders suggest that Swinney could use the Budget, which pertains to 2025/26, to reinstate the universal payment for the following winter. This restoration would precede the Holyrood 2026 election, a contest mainly between Labour and the SNP. The cost of reinstating the universal payment would be approximately £160m, with a government insider stating, “It is something we are actively considering.”

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In conclusion of this news article, it is evident that the Scottish Government is contemplating the revival of universal winter fuel payments, which could have significant implications for older Scots and upcoming elections. The decision to potentially restore these payments showcases a shift in priorities and could have a considerable impact on the political landscape in Scotland.