HOW can the former care minister Paul Burstow come out with the ridiculous statement that winter fuel payments should be means tested (Echo, Jan 3)?

Does he not know that the electricity and gas companies have announced an average nine per cent rise in the cost in their energy bills and that the cost of food in the shops has risen substantially over the past two years.

The winter fuel payment has already been cut. Those those over 80 were getting £400 but last year this was reduced to £300.

Those pensioners who received £250 saw their allowance cut to £200 without any prior notice from the Government.

Instead of reducing the amount of fuel allowance, the Government should cut the five per cent VAT on all utility bills.

In no way can this be called a caring Government. I wonder what David Cameron thinks about Paul Burstow’s statement? Does he even know?

JM Gowland, Heighington.