PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
WINTER DEATHS (27 October 2005)

That this House notes with concern Age Concern's estimate that 150,000 pensioners died from cold-related illnesses during the last five winters, that the Meterological Office has predicted that the winter of 2005-06 will be exceptionally severe and that Age Concern has stated that more than 20,000 pensioners could die this winter; further notes that the cost of energy has risen substantially over the past year; is concerned that, notwithstanding agreements against disconnection and the Government's winter fuel allowance scheme, many pensioners will be fearful of adequately heating their homes over the coming winter; and calls upon the Government to look again at the adequacy of the existing schemes, given the substantial increases in fuel prices.

Sponsored by:
Mike Weir (Scottish National Party)