‘Dignity in retirement’

Unite delegates spoke passionately in defence of a state pension tied to a real living wage on Monday (July 7) at Unite’s policy conference.

Moving a composite on a “Living State Pension”, Unite delegate Mike McLoughlin explained how the UK state pension is grossly inadequate, citing statistics showing its value is at the bottom of dozens of European countries.

“Our pension is even less than a third world country, like Mexico”.

Mike highlighted the intrinsic unfairness of a two-tier state pension system where some pensioners receive more than others. He pointed out that with every passing year, the gap between these two tiers will continue to widen, as does the gap between the richest pensioners and the poorest. 

Mike proudly spoke in favour of a state pension based on 70 per cent of average wages for all pensioners, which would give them dignity and security in retirement. This would also do away with the need for pension credit, an entitlement for the poorest pensioners, for which pensioners must apply.

“Maybe the government can do something sensible, and [get rid] of a very, very complicated system and an expensive system to administer,” he said.

Highlighting that more than 2.5m pensioners fail to claim pension credit, he added, “People should have dignity and security in retirement without having to claim.”

Seconding the motion was Unite delegate Joyce Still of the South East region. Joyce outlined the maths of the two-tier system introduced in 2016 by the Tory government, whereby some pensioners receive £169 a week, while others receive £221 a week. She explained that when a state pension is based on percentage increases as the triple lock system does now, then the gap between those on the state pension and average earnings will only increase.

Calling for a state pension tied to 70 per cent of average earnings for all pensioners, Joyce said, “This would create a true living state pension, that provides all our pensioners with dignity in retirement and what they so rightly deserve.”

Several Unite delegates weighed in on the debate, with Unite delegate Eck Barclay from Scotland noting that a pension should not be seen as a benefit.

“It’s something you work all your life to get,” he said.

Meanwhile, Unite delegate William Jarrett of the Northeast Yorkshire and Humberside (NEYH) region highlighted the plight of WASPI women, who continue fighting for pensions justice. He also argued that while the intention of the composite was admirable, he believed it did not go far enough.

Mike responded to widespread applause, “It’s like the oak tree, we’ve got to start somewhere. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Let’s start the fight and get on with it.”

The composite was overwhelmingly carried.

By Hajera Blagg

Photos by Mark Thomas