The controversial issue of raising the state pension age has returned to the political spotlight as Labour calls for an urgent independent review of the government's plans.
Growing Concerns Over Pension Age Hike
Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has demanded transparency regarding potential increases to the state pension age, currently set to rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028. The move comes amid worrying stagnation in UK life expectancy improvements.
"The government must publish its evidence and review these plans properly," Kendall stated, highlighting that millions could face working significantly longer than anticipated.
Key Issues Driving the Debate:
- Recent flatlining of life expectancy gains across the UK
- Growing health inequalities between regions
- Concerns about manual workers' ability to work into late 60s
- Economic impact of keeping older workers in employment
Government Under Pressure
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) maintains that no decision has been made about further increases beyond 67, but experts warn another review could recommend pushing the age to 68 sooner than planned.
"This isn't just about numbers - it's about people's lives," Kendall emphasized, pointing to the disproportionate effect on those in physically demanding jobs.
The debate comes as new research suggests regional disparities in healthy life expectancy could create a "postcode lottery" for retirement.
