What a shame they never interview ordinary pensioners on these shows. Of course the audience wouldn't feel any sympathy for 2 celebs.
What seems to be forgotten is that the winter fuel allowance was originally a substitute for increasing the basic pension! If it were added to the pension all this silly fuss would stop. Anyone receiving it who doesn't need it can give it to charity and do so in a tax efficient way so the charity gains an extra £50. Some of us think the charities might do a better job with it than the government.
I don't use my bus pass very much so it doesn't cost anyone anything I think. Is it the case that the bus companies are only paid when we actually use the pass? If this is so then it is rediculous to say that all the rich pensioners are getting something they don't need as they probably don't use it. What about the Freedom Pass enjoyed only by Londoners and not the rest of us? A lot of people are using it to get to and from work.
I am very against means testing for the so called benefits. I think they are rights. Such a load of beaurocracy might create more public sector jobs but probably wouldn't save any money.
I do wish someone would define what they mean by rich pensioners.
In light of our current weather.......