I URGE all pensioners receiving the state pension not to get too encouraged after reading The Press report on April 4 under the headline “Pensions to rise to £140”, indicating that “Pensioners currently receive £97.65 a week but this will rise to at least £140 at current prices”.
As I understand it, the proposed new flat rate will be payable to those retiring in 2015/16, while existing pensioners will continue to be paid on the same terms as before (including any top-up benefits).
This proposal will fail to rectify what is described by the Government as a system which is too complex and in crisis and at the same time create a two-tier system.
Jean Mellor, Boroughbridge Road, York.
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