Labour conference ‘graveyard slot’ for winter fuel vote angers Unite

Union disappointed at scheduling of debate on motion condemning removal of allowance from most pensioners

The Unite union has accused Labour conference organisers of seeking to silence them by scheduling a vote that could condemn cuts to winter fuel payments for the very end of the gathering.

Unite and the Communication Workers Union, which co-sponsored the motion calling for ministers to reverse the removal of the allowance from all but the poorest pensioners, had hoped it would take place on Monday, the busiest day of the event in Liverpool.