Budget Blow For Pensioners A Talking Point On Buchan Doorsteps

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP has warned that the Chancellors decision to freeze personal tax allowances for the over-65s will hit pensioners hard.  Dr Whiteford contrasted the Coalition Government’s treatment of pensioners with tax cut given to the highest earners.

Higher personal tax allowances granted to those over the age of 65 – £10,500 for those aged 65 to 74 and £10,660 for those aged 75 plus (2012-13) – will be frozen until they come into line with the basic personal tax allowance.

Dr Whiteford also revealed that the changes affecting pensioners announced in the Budget had been a big talking point on the doorsteps during the local election campaign in Buchan.

Dr Whiteford said:

“The Budget truly failed the fairness test when millions of pensioners are penalised while millionaires get a tax cut from the Tories.

“While, as expected, the Chancellor increased personal tax allowances, his decision to freeze the higher age allowances granted to those aged over 65 will hit pensioners hard.

“I’ve found that this is a particular talking point on the doorsteps when I’ve been out with local council candidates and people are very concerned about the effects of the Chancellor’s decision to target pensioners in this way.”