State pension 'will become less generous'

The state pension will change to a less generous system in the coming years, analysts believe.

A survey of more than 200 financial advisers by Aegon found that just 4% expect the current system to remain in place 30 years from now.

Of the 96% anticipating change, almost half said people will have to work later in life before they can claim, while four in ten (39%) believe the Government will revert to means testing pensions so wealthier retirees get a smaller payout.

A similar number (41%) expect a move away from the current triple-lock guarantee, which states pensions must increase annually by the higher of inflation, average earnings or a minimum of 2.5%, and become less generous.

Duncan Jarrett, retail managing director at Aegon UK, said any change in the state pension could leave the public unsure about their own retirement plans.

"The state pension is a financial lifeline for millions of pensioners in the UK, so it's concerning to see such a resounding number of financial advisers foresee more uncertainty on the horizon.

"People need confidence in what to expect to receive from the state, so we can't afford cliff-edge moves to means testing, or sudden increases to the state pension age.

"We need to get better as an industry at highlighting to individuals how much they are due to receive, so they can then work out how much private pension they need."

A spokesman for the Department for Work and Pensions said: "The new state pension reflects a bold move to a system that is fairer, simpler and easier to understand.

"Our pension reforms will give those ready to retire the security and independence to plan for the future."