MP acts for pensioners (From Yeovil Express)

MP acts for pensioners

7:57am Sunday 19th March 2006 in Villages

MP David Heath has fiercely criticised the Government over their 'scandalous' record on helping pensioners.

Mr Heath has highlighted the failed pledges made by the Government has called on the Prime Minister to take 'urgent' action.

Mr Heath said: "In 1997 the Prime Minister told the Labour Party Conference that he didn't want to live in a country where pensioners were forced to sell their homes in order to pay for their long term care.

"Yet nine years later, that is exactly what is happening - the cost of living has gone up, but the help being offered to pensioners' remains totally inadequate."

He said that in 2005 the Government introduced a welcome council tax rebate for pensioners but it has since been withdrawn - suggesting it was nothing but a pre-election bribe from the Labour Party.

He added: "I was grateful for the opportunity to remind the Prime Minister of his failed pledge.

"However, I would much rather he acts to put right this unacceptable situation.

"High council tax bills, and an inadequate state pension, are crippling many pensioners.

'The Government has a duty to provide the necessary care for the elderly members of our community.

I hope that the Prime Minister takes the necessary action, sooner rather than later!"