CITIZENS PENSION REAL WAY FORWARD

Mike Weir MP, Scottish Shadow Minister for Work and Pensions, has criticised both the Labour government and Tory opposition for failing to take seriously the crisis facing pensioners.

Speaking ahead of today’s opposition debate on pensions Mr Weir said neither the Tory motion nor government amendment addressed the real problem.

“There is widespread cynicism and distrust over the whole issue of pensions following the collapse of so many private pension funds and the government’s staunch refusal to follow the Ombudsman’s recommendation that compensation should be paid to the victims.”

“This totally undermines the government’s attempts to promote private pensions, whilst the Tories are obsessed with pinning personal blame on Gordon Brown rather than addressing the root of the problem.”

 “What is required is a move towards a true Citizens Pension that would end means testing, provide a decent income for all pensioners and a solid foundation for private savings.”