The communities minister has confirmed Stormont will be following Westminster’s lead when it comes to winter fuel payments for pensioners.

Last month, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the payments of up to £300 would become means tested in England and Wales, and would only be given to those on certain benefits.

In a written statement to the assembly, Gordon Lyons said while he did not agree with the move, Stormont would be maintaining parity with the rest of the UK.

“Regrettably there is no additional resource available in the budget to allow us to diverge from the UK Government decision,” he said.

More to follow.