Just been to a small social get together when the subject of the heating allowance came up. It was amazing - in the space of about two minutes and following several opinions being voiced it turned into almost a shouting match.
One of the party is comfortably off - huge house, lovely cars etc. and he was saying that he shouldn't be sent the heating allowance as people like him don't need it and it should be means tested. That really started the row; I suspect that he gives his allowance to charity as he is a generous man, but what do other Gransnetters think?
Surely the cost of administering a means test would far outweigh any saving, and people who feel they don't need it will give it to a deserving cause if they have that kind of nature. Those who don't need it but feel entitled would probably appeal the decision and cost even more in administration. Those of us who have worked all our lives and paid all contributions probably wouldn't get back everything we have paid in if we live to be 150, so are we depriving others ? I left there with my head reeling - what a lively afternoon!
Lasr two letters continued Jan 24
Good Morning Good Friday 29th March 2024