THE one decision that did more than any other to drive Keir Starmer from office was means-testing the winter fuel allowance.

It caused a disaster in council elections in 2025, provoking a partial u-turn that caused further electoral disasters this year in English councils, the Scottish parliament and the Welsh assembly, proving the final straw for Starmer’s party.

Blaming all these disasters on the winter fuel allowance might seem over the top, but that is the view within Labour based on experience on the doorsteps.

The allowance was mentioned far more often than immigration by Labour voters, or former voters. It was also the number one issue raised with pollsters throughout 2025.

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The winter fuel allowance came up again on doorsteps and in polling this year due to the clawback mechanism introduced by chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Although universal payments have been restored, pensioners with an income exceeding £35,000 have the same amount deducted via their tax code.

The first monthly deduction took place in April and the elections were in May. It takes a particular kind of political genius to time a winter fuel scheme to ruin spring elections.

Nevertheless, that monthly deduction for most people is just £17.

Mr Starmer and his chancellor can be condemned for poor judgement,........

© The Irish News