**Labour Reaffirms Commitment to Pensioner Winter Fuel Cuts: ‘Funding Must Be Addressed’** In an exclusive interview with *The Independent*, Labour chair Ellie Reeves discussed the party's stance on various pressing issues, including the controversial decision to maintain cuts to winter fuel payments for pensioners. Reeves emphasized the necessity of making tough financial choices, stating, “The money has got to come from somewhere.” Reeves also addressed the internal dynamics of the party, particularly the need to confront groups like Momentum to ensure Labour can effectively position itself for the upcoming election. She highlighted that significant changes were essential for the party to regain voter trust and support. Additionally, Reeves touched on the party's plans to address crime and safety, advocating for the construction of more prisons as part of a broader strategy to enhance public security. As Labour navigates these complex issues, Reeves remains firm in her belief that difficult decisions are crucial for the party's future and its ability to govern effectively.

Keir Starmer has emphasized that making difficult choices, such as reducing the winter fuel payment to save £1.4 billion annually, is essential for rebuilding the UK. He argued that failing to take such actions would merely be "putting a lick of paint over the damp," suggesting that superficial fixes are insufficient for addressing deeper issues. In response, the Prime Minister defended his decisions, including the cuts to the winter fuel allowance, framing them as necessary long-term solutions. He described the approach of making unpopular decisions as part of a broader strategy to "strip down the joint and rebuild the house." This comes as recent polls indicate a decline in his popularity, highlighting the challenges he faces in gaining public support for these measures.