§ 28. Mr. Nigel GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the impact the Chancellor's increase in the senior citizens winter fuel allowance will have on the health of senior citizens. [77726]
§ Ms JowellBy announcing in his recent Budget statement an increase from £20 to £100 in the winter fuel allowance payable to pensioner households, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor clearly signalled the Government's intention to tackle fuel poverty. By benefiting those older people most at risk, this substantial fivefold increase will contribute to combating the many health problems related to cold conditions in homes.