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Protesters lobby MPs over pensions
22.10.08
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Pensioners and trade unions joined forces to call for the basic state pension to be increased above the poverty level.
More than 1,000 protesters of all ages were lobbying Parliament to urge MPs to pay single pensioners at least £151 a week.
They also want the state pension to be increased immediately in line with earnings or prices, depending on which is higher, and for it to be paid universally to all existing pensioners, rather than being based on National Insurance contributions as is currently the case.
The campaign was organised by the National Pensioners Convention and 15 trade unions to mark the centenary of the introduction of the state pension. The groups believe it is the first time that both working age and retired people have joined forces to call for a higher pension for both now and in the future.
NPC general secretary Joe Harris said: "After 100 years of the state pension it's a national disgrace that at least 2.5 million older people are still living below the official poverty line, and millions more are struggling to meet the rising costs of living.
"Pensioners - both now and in the future - need dignity and security in retirement that only a decent state pension can provide. The Government should use the huge £46 billion surplus in the National Insurance Fund and give everyone a pension that takes them out of poverty."
TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: "This year we have celebrated the centenary of the state pension. It remains a key achievement, but its value has melted away since the link with earnings was ended by the last Conservative government.
"This is why unions are giving strong support to today's NPC march and rally, and joining the call to give today's pensioners a decent pension and restoring the link to earnings or prices."
Unison general secretary Dave Prentis said: "Unison is demanding a living pension for retired people. The Government should start by restoring the link between earnings or prices, whichever is the highest, and the basic state pension immediately.
"Telling 70, 80 and 90-year-old pensioners to wait until 2012 is simply unreasonable - they need the money to put food on the table today."
Reader views (3)
Here's a sample of the latest views published.
I have been paying into a money purchase scheme for 20 odd years. During that time returns and annuity rates have fallen. Currently I am looking at 20% of final salary upon retirement for putting in more than people in the public sector who typically retire (early) on 2/3rds final salary. In addition to the state pension going up a vehicle has to be provided for those in the private sector so that they can get equal returns for equal contributions. The providers of these money purchase schemes do not earn their bonuses!
- Michael, London
People who work and pay their insurance and taxes towards a pension for years should get the pension increase. People who have never paid a penny in taxes should not.
- Maggie, London
A good cause, but why has nobody told them about the Pensions Reforms that come into effect as of next year, which will result in pensions being funded by the employer and employee, not NI contributions or the cost of living.
Why has that information not been reported on?
- Disillusioned, London
