New flat-rate state pension comment

Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director at Age UK, said:

'Plans to consider introducing a higher, flat-rate state pension are very good news. Our state pension system is one of the least generous and most complicated in the developed world so any move which takes away the guesswork for those nearing retirement is a step in the right direction. But the Government must not turn its back on the 1.8 million current pensioners living in poverty. Much more should be done to get vital benefits cash to all those who need it.'

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Notes to Editors

Age UK

Age UK is the new force combining Age Concern and Help the Aged, dedicated to improving later life.

We provide free information, advice and support to over five million people; commercial products and services to over one million customers; and research and campaign on the issues that matter to people in later life. Our work focuses on five key areas: money matters, health and well being, home and care, work and training and leisure and lifestyle. We work with our national partners, Age Scotland, Age Cymru and Age NI (together the Age UK Family), our local Age UK partners in England and local Age Concerns. We also work internationally for people in later life as a member of the DEC and with our sister charity Help Age International.

Age UK is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England (registered charity number 1128267 and company number 6825798). Age Concern England and Help the Aged (both registered charities), and their trading and other associated companies merged on the 1st April 2009. Together they have formed the Age UK Group ("we"). Charitable services are offered through Age UK and commercial products are offered by the Charity's trading companies, which donate their net profits to Age UK (the Charity). 

Media contact: Vicky Smith
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