Independence gives us the chance to significantly increase the state pension. Even If we only match the European average that would double the current state pension.
the Scottish Government in 2013 states: “Everyone currently in receipt of the basic state pension, graduated retirement benefit, state earnings-related pension scheme or the state second pension would receive these pensions as now, on time and in full.”
he cost of providing a pension in Scotland is currently around 6-8% cheaper than in the rUK because of lower life expectancy. Scottish Government figures suggest the taxation raised in Scotland is sufficient to pay for all services currently devolved as well as cover the pension and social security arrangements paid in Scotland by the UK Government.
So the cost of pensions to an independent Scottish Government would be lower than, or at most the same as, they are right now until the Scottish Government decided to increase the amount paid. There are currently no significant additional pensions costs to the Scottish Government associated with independence.
Open Minds on Independence #9