AGE CONCERN’S RESPONSE TO THE QUEEN’S SPEECH

15 November 2006

“The Pensions Bill is very welcome – but plans for reform must not ignore today’s pensioners.”

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

Pensions Reform Bill

“This Bill is long-overdue but extremely welcome. We are delighted that the Government has finally woken up to the need to improve the state pension, particularly for women who have missed out the most.

“But today’s pensioners cannot wait until 2012. Without urgent action, the real value of the basic state pension will fall to a dismal £75 by this date. The Government must urgently restore the earnings link so that pensioners do not get poorer the longer they live.”

Local Government Bill

“Local services are hugely important to older people and must be properly funded. But inflation-busting rises in Council Tax in recent years have proved a major strain for millions of pensioners, particularly those who on a low, fixed income. The Government must replace Council Tax with a fairer system that is linked to people’s ability to pay.”

Consumer Protection Bill

"This Bill should finally put an end to aggressive high pressure selling, giving much greater protection to older people in their own home. We hear many stories of older people being bullied into buying expensive products that they do not need. A cooling-off period is very welcome.”

Bus Travel Bill

“The introduction of a national system of free bus travel will be popular with pensioners, helping many to stay in touch with friends and family. But this may still not help those who live in areas with no bus services. An alternative must be put in place, such as tokens which could be used for taxi or community transport journeys.”

Further Education Bill

“We are concerned that this Bill will discriminate against older students. The Government must take a more ‘age equal’ approach to further education and extend entitlement to a Level 3 qualification to people of all ages. We need a fairer, more transparent education system.”