Today at business questions, Andrew Rosindell M.P. reiterated the fact that pensioners have served their country tirelessly through decades of hardwork. Given the ongoing the cost-of-living crisis, it's crucial for the government to prioritise their well-being. Andrew therefore asked the Leader of the House for Parliamentary time to be devoted to discussing the way in which The Government can give pensioners what they deserve.
The Leader of the House will know that I welcome the support the Government have given to pensioners, with an 8.5% increase in pensions in April and the triple lock remaining firmly in place. However, the tax threshold will consume much of the support that pensioners have been given, and the national insurance reduction has done nothing for them. I ask the Leader of the House to arrange an urgent debate on improving the quality of life for pensioners in the United Kingdom who have worked hard all their lives, contributing to our nation’s success, and deserve a high-quality retirement.
Andrew Rosindell M.P.
This Government can be very proud of their record in this respect. I remember when we came to power in 2010 the appalling maladministration of pension and tax credits that left many people trapped in poverty and misery. The triple lock and uprating of the state pension by 8.5% from April this year will protect pensioner incomes, and the state pension has increased by £3,700 since 2010. It is very important to ensure that people are being lifted out of poverty and looked after when the cost of living rises due to heating bills and other demands that are made on their purse as they age. We have lifted 200,000 pensioners out of absolute poverty and improved the lives of many more, and that is a record to be proud of. I will make sure that the issue that my hon. Friend raises is heard by the Secretary of State.
The Rt Hon. Penny Mordaunt M.P., Leader of the House of Commons, Lord President of the Council