Steve Darling: U-turns and high fliers

This week we received the welcome news that the Chancellor has finally reversed course on the Winter Fuel Allowance. 

Pensioners earning £35,000 or below will have their Winter Fuel Payment reinstated for this winter—a welcome relief after the Government’s disastrous decision left countless people choosing between heating and eating.

But let’s be clear: the suffering this caused cannot be undone. For months, the Government buried its head in the sand, ignoring the real hardships facing pensioners across Torbay and beyond.

We will now scrutinise the details to ensure this isn’t just another half-measure. The Chancellor must urgently confirm whether there is a cliff-edge at £35,000—because pensioners have endured enough uncertainty. We cannot allow another winter of despair.

Since the cuts were announced last autumn, I have fought tooth and nail to hold the government to account—challenging ministers, voting against these harmful measures, and backing motions that seek to reverse them. As a member of the Work and Pensions Select Committee, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact that last winter’s cuts had.

That’s why the fight doesn’t stop with this u-turn. Alongside my colleagues, I’m pushing for a long-term solution that ensures pensioners are protected from fuel poverty. We need more than just short-term fixes; we need real reform, including proper home insulation support to reduce energy bills, fairer energy tariffs so pensioners aren’t penalised for how they pay, and better access to financial advice to ensure every household claims the support they deserve.

Another fight continues as we work to protect Torbay’s coronary services. We recently won a temporary reprieve when health bosses announced they would pause their plans until July—but this is not the final victory. We must keep the pressure on to ensure this dangerous proposal is scrapped for good.

At stake is Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI), a life-saving treatment for heart attack patients. If services are moved 24 miles away to Exeter, it will create unacceptable delays, putting lives at risk. It is unthinkable that Torbay residents could be denied emergency care that is vital in saving lives.

I have been vocal in my opposition to this reckless plan, urging local health leaders to reconsider their approach and keep urgent treatment where it belongs—here in Torbay. But I need your support. If you haven’t signed my petition yet, please do—every voice matters. You can sign the petition at torbaylibdems.org.uk/campaigns/protect-torbays-coronary-services.

Many of you will remember the campaign to save Paignton’s Post Office, after it was threatened with closure last year. Thanks to overwhelming public support, we secured its future—but there were concerns when it was announced that the branch would transition from a Directly Managed Branch to a franchise model.

Last week, we received confirmation that South Coast Retail—a company with a strong record in managing Post Offices—has been appointed as the franchise holder. This is a relief, and I sincerely hope the transition will be smooth, ensuring the branch remains central and accessible to our community and that there is  protection for current staff. I will monitor the process closely to protect staff and secure the essential services residents rely on.

Last but certainly not least, I have to mention the success that was the English Riviera Airshow—what a fantastic event! From breathtaking aerial displays to the incredible atmosphere, it was a wonderful celebration of aviation and community spirit.

Seeing the Red Arrows carve through the sky with their legendary precision was a highlight, along with stunning performances from historic and modern aircraft. The event showcased Torbay at its best, bringing tourism to our region and supporting local businesses.

A huge thank you to the pilots, organisers, volunteers, and spectators who made the weekend so special. This event grows stronger each year, and I look forward to seeing it continue to inspire generations to come.

If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email me at steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk or call 07908 349347. For regular updates, sign up for my newsletter at torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter.