VALE of York MP Anne McIntosh has outlined new proposals to bring "peace of mind" to the region's pensioners.

Miss McIntosh said the Conservatives would cut back on red tape, increase money to pensioners "as of right", reduce means testing and reform annuity rules.

She said: "Pensions are becoming an increasing cause of concern for people from all backgrounds.

"Under this current government, occupational pensions have been burdened with excessive red tape and Labour has imposed a £5 billion a year tax on pension funds. Final salary schemes are closing in droves, and the elderly are being forced to rely on the state of their income."

Updated: 11:34 Tuesday, October 29, 2002