Ten Labour MPs join open revolt on stripping winter fuel allowance from pensioners ahead of showdown vote next week - but Angela Rayner says government WON'T U-turn

Keir Starmer is facing a growing Labour revolt over stripping the winter fuel allowance from millions of pensioners.

Ten of the party's MPs have now signed an early day motion calling for the plan to be dropped and warning of the impact on society's most vulnerable.

Several left-wingers already suspended by the PM over a separate rebellion have also signalled their opposition. A showdown vote is expected early next week,although given Sir Keir's huge majority the result is not in doubt.

Angela Rayner again rejected demands for a rethink this morning as she toured broadcast studios,saying the government had to balance the books.

Only pensioners on incomes low enough to receive pension credit will get winter fuel payments worth up to £300 this year,despite fears that many will be forced to choose between heating and eating.

The government had initially batted away calls from the Tories and Lib Dems to put the issue before the Commons.

Keir Starmer (pictured) was berated by Rishi Sunak for axing winter fuel allowance in the first session since Parliament returned from its summer break

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