• YOUR correspondent Derek Jarman asks Camden councillors to give a reason why they might support ending the winter fuel payment for most pensioners, (Winter fuel payment questions for Labour Camden Council, September 19).

Here are a few, and it is baffling why the Labour leadership haven’t deployed them more effectively.

First, the winter fuel payment was introduced when pensioners were the poorest demographic. This is no longer the case, with families with small children occupying that slot.

Secondly, many of those who receive it are affluent and don’t need it. It’s a waste of scarce resources.

Thirdly, pensioners already receive perks that no one else gets, for example, free transport, that is worth a lot more than £200, and the triple-locked pension.

Fourthly, to argue that £200 or £300 in a household income of around £12,000 makes the difference between heating and eating seems unlikely.

Fifthly, the government has prolonged the Household Support Fund which local authorities can use to target those most in need. It is “aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials”.

I am depressed by the growing tendency for people to be unable to imagine that someone else might need funds more than them.

Can we have some solidarity please?

CAROLYN HAYMAN, NW5
Pensioner