Martin Deane on Pensions

See the Age Concern Manifesto (see www.20millionvotes.org.uk)

Martin J Deane, Green Party Candidate, Hull North

The Green Party is in considerable agreement with the Age Concern Manifesto in particular the campaign against ageism and the demands for a decent state pension.

The Age Concern Manifesto makes these further points - our responses follow.

• increase the Basic State Pension to £105 a week
  It is Green Party policy is to introduce a Citizen's Pension at £109 pw at present rates, paid to all pensioners regardless of contributions and with the link to average earnings restored. This translates into £167 for a couple.
  

• keep the State Pension Age at 65
  The Green Party has no plans to change the pension age.
  

• introduce a package of measures for carers
  The Green Party policy of a Citizen's Income will provide carers with a stable income. We value carers and plan to introduce other measures, including respite care.
  

• persuade employers to do more towards our pensions
  Employers would not be compelled to provide pensions, in Green plans, but we would ensure that where they do, pensioners and workers would have overall control of the scheme. We are keen to encourage new types of public and community based pension schemes, investing in public services, in particular.
  

• provide better information and advice about income in later life
  Green Party plans for a Citizen's Pension will create a simpler and more transparent system. All relevant information and advice should be provided.
  

• an end to discriminatory rules in health and social care
  We are against age discrimination in health and social care
  

• a public duty to promote age equality
  The Green Party intends to give all individuals enforceable rights as well as promote a culture where ageism does not exist.
  

• an end to mandatory retirement ages
  The policies of a Citizen's Income and a Citizen's Pension would make the actual age of retirement less important, making for greater flexibility. We would outlaw discrimination against early leavers in pension schemes.
  

• a higher personal expenses allowance for people in care
  The Green party supports free residential care where that is necessary.
  

• rights of the most vulnerable to be protected
  It is the rights of the most vulnerable that form the basis of Green Party social care.
  

• improved services for older people with mental health problems
  The Green Party agrees these services are poor and should be improved.
  

• more choice in care, housing and support services
  While accepting choice is important, Greens believe the emphasis should be on providing high quality services in every locality, close to where people live.