The UK state pension is set to increase by over £400 annually from April 2025, reaching approximately £12,000 per year, due to the 'triple lock' mechanism. However, the government's decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payment for many pensioners has sparked significant backlash, with concerns over rising energy costs and financial struggles for the elderly. British expats in certain EU countries will still receive Winter Fuel Payments but may face issues with exchange rate volatility affecting their pension value. Additionally, the pension increase could push about 300,000 pensioners into a higher tax bracket due to frozen income tax thresholds. The Labour Party is under pressure to address these concerns, especially amid fears of potential further cuts to pension benefits.