London, Sep 11 (V7N) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced internal dissent within his Labour Party on Tuesday after winning a parliamentary vote on a controversial decision to cut winter heating payments for pensioners. The cut, which reduces the winter fuel allowance for all but the poorest retirees, has stirred unrest among Labour lawmakers, despite being passed by a margin of 348-228.

Starmer defended the move, saying it was necessary to address the severe financial issues inherited from the previous Conservative government. The winter fuel allowance, worth between £200 and £300 annually, is set to be restricted, reducing the number of pensioners eligible from 11.4 million to 1.5 million. The government insists that the upcoming £460 increase in the state pension will offset the cuts for most retirees.

Despite Labour’s significant majority, 17 party members called for the cut to be postponed, and 53 Labour MPs either abstained or did not vote, citing doubts about the impact on people with fixed incomes. Rachael Maskell, one Labour MP, voiced her opposition, stating she could not support the measure on grounds of conscience.

Starmer's call for tough decisions was echoed by Treasury Chief Rachel Reeves, who urged unity among lawmakers. The Prime Minister has emphasized the need to repair the economy and public services, warning that the financial outlook would worsen before improvements could be made.

Meanwhile, Starmer has also faced criticism for the early release of over 1,700 prisoners due to overcrowding in British prisons. The move, which allows some inmates to be freed after serving 40% of their sentences, has raised concerns about the potential for reoffending, though it excludes those convicted of serious crimes. The measure is partially in response to the influx of prisoners following violent anti-immigrant protests in August.

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