The government has launched a consultation on the UK state pension, which will consider the views of the public and representative bodies on the future system.

The state pension age independent reviewer John Cridland CBE, has called upon additional public views as he publishes an interim report to ensure that the state pension age remains fair and affordable for all pensioners beyond 2028.

The consultation will consider key aspects of the state pension age including life expectancy in different nations and regions and from different occupational groups, affordability as the ratio of pensions as a proportion of GDP, fairness for different generations and groups of people and understanding fuller working lives and its impact on pensions.

It will also look at those most reliant on the state pension, including carers, people with poor health or disability, and therefore, who will be most affected by any future changes. At present one in 10 adults already have some caring responsibilities and it is expected to increase. In addition, generation X, those born in the late 1960s and 1970s are most likely to need to pay attention to any amendments made to the state pension while embarking on their retirement planning.

Furthermore, the consultation is also reviewing alternatives to a state pension age, recognising that the work and retirement climate is changing. Individuals may opt for a more flexible approach to retirement working part-time or working for longer and so seek a full or reduced pension.

Cridland said: “The future of the state pension age is a hugely important issue for this country. It must be fair and sustainable, and reflect changes in society. My interim report provides an insight into my developing thinking and poses a number of questions.

“Whatever recommendations I decide to make in my final report, they will be underpinned by the importance of effective communications about the state pension age. People need to be able to plan effectively for their own retirement.

“The review continues to gather evidence to inform its recommendations and the views of the public will form a key part of that data. I want to encourage as many people as possible to respond to the consultation and really hope to stimulate wider discussion."

The Pensions Act 2014 requires the state pension to be reviewed during each parliament to help ensure that it remains sustainable for generations to come.

The consultation commences today and will close on the 31 December 2016. Conclusions will be announced by May 2017.

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