§ Mr. GaleTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to ensure that cold-weather heating cost payments for the elderly will be paid in time to meet the needs of pensioners whose charges are met through pre-payment key meters; what regulations will apply to the payment of cold-weather heating allowances; and if she will make a statement. [21906]
§ Mr. DenhamCold Weather Payments will be triggered when the average temperature at specified weather stations has been recorded as, or is forecast to be, 0 degrees centigrade or below over seven consecutive days. People awarded Income Support or income-based Jobseeker's Allowance who have a pensioner or disability premium or have a child under the age of five are eligible for help and payments will be made automatically.
In paying Winter Fuel Payments, priority will be given to pensioners receiving Income Support. The precise provisions which will apply will be made known when the regulations are laid.