Sunak and Starmer Clash Over Winter Fuel Payment

Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer clashed at PMQs over the controversial decision to means-test the winter fuel payment, with Sunak demanding Starmer release the impact assessment and accusing him of hiding data suggesting the policy could cause thousands of deaths. Starmer deflected by highlighting a £22bn financial 'black hole' left by the Conservatives. Meanwhile, unions criticized Starmer for not committing to higher pay increases, despite his assurance that tough economic decisions are necessary to maintain stability. Addressing the Trade Union Congress, Starmer stressed the need for economic stability and hinted at further austerity measures, sparking union discontent. This is the first time a Labour Prime Minister has addressed the TUC in 15 years, emphasizing a pro-business and pro-worker stance while calling for a 'politics of partnership'.