A huge predicted increase in the ageing population of the UK in 20 years’ time will mean more public finances will need to be provided, ministers have claimed.
According to an Age Map, almost a quarter of the population with be aged over 65 by 2031, and by 2031, West Somerset, South Shropshire, West Dorset and Berwick upon Tweed will have around two out of five people aged 65 or over.
The results are part of evidence requested by the government as they propose a timetable for increasing the state pension age to 66.
The plans to stop forcing people to retire at 65, by phasing out the so-called default retirement age, were announced last week.
Pensions minister Steve Webb said in response to the figures: “We cannot ignore our ageing society – it brings great opportunity if we rise to the challenge. We must harness the skills and experience of our older generations. We must also provide the right support.
“We are making changes to reinvigorate a culture of saving and will ensure that when you get your state pension it provides a proper foundation.”
Copyright © Press Association 2010
