Sir Peter Bottomley MP

November 2022

​

Thank you for contacting me about the Autumn Statement and support for pensioners.

 

The Chancellor has been clear about the scale of the economic challenge facing the UK and I welcome that he has taken tough but fair decisions to restore economic stability, tackle inflation, and help vulnerable households with the cost of living.

 

The cost of living has made life more difficult for everyone.

 

To help households, the Chancellor has extended the Energy Bills Support scheme until 2024 and there will be further help for those on means tested benefits and for pensioners.

 

Many will know that I have long campaigned to protect and support pensioners through various important campaigns.

 

This has included pension credits, the frozen pensions policy and pension poverty.

 

The triple lock was intended to slowly close the gap to eradicate pension poverty. I support this pursuit.

 

I welcome the Chancellor’s decision to increase benefits and pensions in line with inflation, honouring the Triple Lock commitment, increasing both by 10.1 per cent from next April.

 

It is clear that the Government have needed to make tough decisions, countries across the world are facing equally distressing situations exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine. We can share in confidence that, when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable, the Government have shown a commitment to supporting people whatever age they may be and in whatever part of the country they may live.

 

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.

 

Sir Peter Bottomley MP