§ Caroline FlintTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the outcome was of the annual review of the Cold Weather Payments scheme. [78550]
§ Malcolm WicksFollowing advice from the Meteorological Office, the annual review of the Cold Weather Payments scheme has now been completed. Amending regulations were laid on 10 October and will come into force on 1 November, in time for the beginning of the winter period.
In addition to the amendments necessary due to Royal Mail postcode changes, 10 postcode to weather station linkages have been changed on the advice of the Meteorological Office following representations made by hon. Members.
Cold Weather Payments are separate from, and in addition to, Winter Fuel Payments which are paid to eligible people from age 60.
I have written to each of the hon. Members affected by the changes.