‘A TERRIBLE TENTH BUDGET’ - Age Concern’s response to the 2006 Budget

22 March 2006

Gordon Lishman, Age Concern’s Director-General, said:

“This is a terrible tenth Budget for today’s and tomorrow’s pensioners. The Chancellor has missed yet another opportunity to meet the needs of our ageing population.”

No help with Council Tax
“It beggars belief that the Chancellor has denied pensioners any extra help this year with their Council Tax bills, just as a new round of bills is set to cause anxiety for millions. Council Tax is a huge financial burden for many pensioners who are living on a low, fixed income. We urgently need a fairer system of taxation in place of Council Tax which is linked to people's ability to pay.

Pensions
“It is hugely worrying that the Chancellor failed to set out Government support for Turner’s recommendations on pensions reform.  A bold White Paper which addresses the needs of women, carers, low paid workers and those without access to a second pension is desperately needed. At the heart of this, there should be a Basic State Pension of at least £114 per week which is available to all.”

Fuel bills
“The continuation of the Winter Fuel Payment and help with insulation are welcome, but more needs to be done to help older people meet the huge hikes in energy bills. Spiralling household costs are causing widespread anxiety.”

Free bus travel
“Introducing a national system of free bus travel will be very popular with pensioners and will help many to stay in touch with friends and family. But 2008 is too long to wait.”