Wednesday, 16 October 2013

Winter fuel allowance (WFA) debate

I think a proportion of Brits here might feel a bit guilty receiving the WFA.  Before it was granted to all, we reluctantly accepted not being entitled to claim it as we reached 60.  Then the UK Government gave in to EU insistence that it be paid, so we banked it feeling slightly uncomfortable.  And now it's being taken away again, many expat Brits don't feel so much indignation, as maybe a slight relief that the UK vs EU battle is over -  even if not settled in our favour.  

By the way, the WFP doesn't come from a fund built up of our contributions over years of working, but from the current year contributions of those still to retire.  They are the owners of the money concerned, and they have the votes to determine which party is in power.  At best, we can but plead and rattle the beggar's bowl! 

More important, in my humble view, is that Britain should mirror the new French system, and have MPs in the UK parliaments which represent the views and interests of Brits who happen to be living abroad for a spell...  That would be like dealing with the underlying malaise of governments who refuse to listen, not just treating the symptoms... 

Chris

PS  The above views have not stopped me signing your petition, by the way!
 Val says  If we did gain it back Chris I think donating it to one of my good causes would help  to stop the guilty feeling! On the MP' s I agree, why not start a petition, I will sign. 
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