§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for assistance in future years for retired people in respect of their fuel bills. [49284]
§ Mr. DarlingAs my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Security announced to the House on 17 July 1998,Official Report, columns 703–05, Winter Fuel Bonuses of £20 for every pensioner household in the country will be paid from next year. These are in addition to Cold Weather Payments, which will continue to be paid at the rate of £8.50 a week during periods of cold weather to pensioners receiving Income Support.