LABOUR BETRAYING PENSIONERS BY DELAYING NEW PLANS TILL AFTER ELECTION - POTTS

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 1st Apr 2005

Sam Potts, Liberal Democrat, responding to reports that Labour will bring in new plans to tackle the pensions crisis, but only after the election, said:

"Labour is betraying pensioners again by delaying these announcements until after the election. The electorate has a right to know what they are choosing and the Liberal Democrats are the only party to be clear and consistent in our call for a Citizen's Pension.

"Liberal Democrats would add over £100 extra a month for a single pensioner over 75, and over £140 extra a month for a pensioner couple. And our plans for a Citizen's Pension, based on residency, not contributions, will dramatically cut means-testing and will be fairer on women pensioners.

"It is clear that we urgently need a Pensions Bill. With all the resources the Government has, Ministers should be honest about their plans."

ENDS