Backbench revolt over pensions rise
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Prime Minister faced the threat of a backbench revolt last night over the Chancellor's "meagre" 75p increase in the basic state pension.
Warning that it was going down badly in Labour's heartlands, Labour MPs lined up to attack as inadequate the rise in line with the inflation rate.
There could be an attempt to restore the link between pensions and pay when the Budget package goes through the Commons in the Finance Bill.
The attack came at an embarrassing time for the Secretary of State for Social Security, Alistair Darling, as he launched a campaign to urge poorer pensioners to take up the minimum income guarantee. The Government is sending out letters to two million pensioners believed to be eligible for the supplement worth £11 a week.
But Labour MPs said they were getting the message from their constituents that pensioners wanted a bigger increase in the state pension, rather than extra allowances.
Lynne Jones, the Labour MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, led demands at a closed meeting for Labour MPs for the state pension to be brought to the level of the minimum income guarantee for all pensioners. Jeff Rooker, a Social Security minister, dismissed her demand, warning it could cost £4bn.
The Chancellor has made clear he intends to keep to his policy of directing extra funds at the poorest pensioners.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments