MP resigns from elderly charity after backlash

Liz Twist has resigned from her role as chair of the board of trustees at Age UK Gateshead

An MP has resigned as chair of a local charity for older people after she faced criticism for voting in favour of plans to cut the Winter Fuel Payment.

A number of constituents complained Blaydon and Consett Labour MP Liz Twist's role as chair of the board of trustees at Age UK Gateshead was at odds with her vote.

Age UK is campaigning for Labour to reverse its decision to restrict payment of the benefit to the poorest pensioners.

Twist said she was stepping down "because of the consistent pressure being placed on the charity by a number of people".

"This is not a decision that I wanted to make, but it is necessary so that their work can carry on," she said.

"I regret that a minority of people have chosen to bring their views around political decisions into a charitable setting in which the goal is to support those who need it the most.

"The values of Age UK Gateshead are still close to my heart and I will continue to work with them and all charities to support that vision."

Under Labour's plans, those who do not receive pension credit, or another means-tested benefit, will no longer receive the Winter Fuel Payment from this autumn.

Age UK believes the cuts will mean about 2.5 million pensioners will find paying their energy bills difficult and is petitioning the government to reverse its decision.

A spokesperson for Age UK Gateshead confirmed Twist had left her position at the charity.

"We will now be recruiting for the position, however in the interim our vice chair of the board of trustees will be taking on the role," they said.

Twist's office has been approached for comment.