Local Campaigner Attacks "Needless Pensioner Poverty"

11.59.47am GMT Wed 9th Feb 2005

New figures released today by Edinburgh North & Leith Parliamentary Spokesperson Mike Crockart , have revealed that over a thousand local pensioners are missing out on pension credit payments. According to the Government's own figures only 70% of people entitled to this money are currently claiming it. In North and Leith that would mean that 1339 pensioner households are failing to receive money due to them. Mr Crockart has called on the Government to introduce a new Citizen's Pension, which would take millions of pensioners off means-tested benefits.

"The Labour Government should be ashamed that so many of the country's poorest pensioners are still living so far beneath the poverty line. Things have gone from bad to worse with the new Pension Credit.

"These figures show that our worst fears are being realised - large numbers of vulnerable pensioners are set to miss out on the help they desperately need."

Under the current system it is often people who have taken time out of paid employment to look after family members who are the worst off. The Lib Dem's proposed Citizen's Pension would mean that every pensioner would receive an adequate basic pension and people would not be penalised for saving for their retirement.

"The only guaranteed way to ensure that pensioners have dignity and security in old age is through a decent state pension, payable as of right.

"That is why Liberal Democrats would guarantee £100 a month more on the pension at 75, over £130 a month for couples over 75, lifting a million pensioners out of means-testing at a stroke."

NOTE

Pension Credit is an entitlement for people aged 60 or over living in Great Britain. It should guarantee everyone aged 60 and over an income of at least £105.45 for single pensioners and £160.95 a week for pensioner couples. You can apply for Pension Credit by calling the freephone Pension Credit application line on 0800 99 1234, textphone 0800 169 0133. Lines are open between 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.