During Wednesday's episode of Good Morning Britain, presenter Susanna Reid shut down Labour's Heidi Alexander after the Transport Secretary corrected Ed Balls over comments about winter fuel payments. The discussion began when Ed Balls questioned whether the government plans to remove free bus passes for those over 60, referencing the removal of the winter fuel allowance.
Alexander paused to 'pull Ed up' on his remark, stating: 'You said that we removed winter fuel allowance for all pensioners and of course we didn't, those on pension credit can still get it.' Reid quickly responded: 'We've explained that multiple times,' ending the debate.
The exchange comes amid ongoing backlash against Labour's decision to restrict winter fuel payments to pensioners receiving pension credit. The government has also faced criticism over accepting gifts from donors, including a trip to New York for Angela Rayner paid for by Lord Alli.
In last month's Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a 20% inheritance tax on farms worth over £1 million from April 2026, sparking protests from farmers who argue it will destroy family farms. The government insists only the wealthiest landowners will be affected.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Reeves have defended the cuts as necessary to fill a £22 billion 'black hole' left by the previous Conservative government.
