Reform UK Candidate's Support for Means Testing Winter Fuel Payment Sparks Controversy

Sarah Pochin, who is running as the Reform UK candidate for the by-election in Runcorn and Helsby, has come under fire for her endorsement of means testing the winter fuel payment. Despite Nigel Farage characterizing such a policy as “vindictive,” Pochin believes it is essential to ensure that only those in genuine need of the payment receive it, stating, “We have so much else we need to spend our money on, like sorting out the adult social care issue.” This stance was highlighted in a recently revived video from 2017 released by the campaign group Reform UK Exposed, where she noted that around 800,000 individuals residing in Spain were benefitting from the winter fuel payment.

Pochin has faced scrutiny not only for her policy position but also for her political past. Her social media accounts were initially disabled after her selection as the Reform candidate but have since been reactivated, showcasing her previous support for the Conservative Party alongside photos with former Conservative leaders. Following inquiries about these images, her access to Facebook faced further restrictions. A Labour representative criticized her, questioning how voters in Runcorn and Helsby could trust a candidate who has ties to the Conservative Party, suggesting that her past affiliations undermine her current position.

Her comments on means testing directly contradict Farage's and Reform's adamant opposition to Labour's recent changes regarding the winter fuel payment, which they argue unfairly affect millions of pensioners. Since July, Labour has limited payments to those already receiving pension credits, a move Farage has denounced as unkind and cynical. This apparent disconnect between Pochin's views and her party's official stance raises further doubts about her suitability as a candidate.

A spokesperson for Reform UK defended Pochin's comments, explaining that her view was personal and aimed at ensuring the allowance benefits those truly in need. Nevertheless, as the by-election approaches—triggered by the resignation of former Labour MP Mike Amesbury due to a conviction—both Reform UK and the Conservatives face a significant challenge in overcoming Labour's long-standing dominance in the area.