There are now more over 60s than under 16s in Britain according to the 2001 census. Yesterday a report published by charity Help the Aged, warned that many pensioners are living below the poverty line.

According to the initial census findings, the number of over 60s has exceeded the number of 16s for the first time ever.

Forum Response: Help the Aged

Mervyn Kohler, head of public affairs at Help the Aged, said: "The shocking poverty and low quality of life experienced by so many people in the most deprived areas of our country is a disgrace.

"The government must re-examine its priorities and pledge to end pensioner poverty, as it has pledged to end poverty for children."

Forum Brief: Age Concern England

Gordon Lishman, director general for Age Concern England, told ePolitix.com: "Age Concern is not surprised to see that the 2001 Census figures show how dramatically the UK is ageing. An ageing society presents enormous opportunities as well as challenges for us all. It will only be a crisis if we don't address the issues now and come up with imaginative and flexible ways of looking at long term care, pensions and the health system.

"These latest figures highlight the urgency with which we must eradicate age discrimination, to enable older people to have greater choice about whether they want to continue working in later life and to make the most of what older people have to offer. It is essential that we make ageism a thing of the past in employment, learning, health, social care and in the marketplace: every area of life."

Forum Response: Counsel and Care

A spokesman for Counsel and Care told ePolitix.com: " In response to census statistics, I think it essential we see the increasing elderly population as a positive not a negative. We will have an increased pool of skilled and experienced people that we can draw upon to provide services and contribute to society.

"However, pensioner poverty is an issue and I think the best and most effective method of tackling poverty later in life is by devising a longterm policy working on 50 year planning cycles."