The UK government has formally responded to a petition demanding a reduction in the State Pension age, stating it has "no plans" to lower it to 65. The petition, launched by Michelle Gill on September 16, has amassed 88,128 signatures at the time of writing.
The petition argues that lowering the State Pension age to 65 would allow people to "retire with dignity and avoid hardship," and could free up jobs for younger workers. It also highlights that many aged 65–67 face poor health, caring pressures, and limited work options, which the petition describes as unfair.
Government response and rationale
In its official response on October 13, the government said: "There are no plans to reduce State Pension age to 65. We are fortunate today that more people are reaching older ages: life expectancy has risen rapidly over the past century, driven by breakthroughs in medical treatments and generally healthier lifestyles."
The response cited Office for National Statistics projections showing that in 2026, men aged 66 in the UK can be expected to live on average a further 19.3 years, and women aged 66 a further 21.9 years; by 2046, this is projected to increase by an additional 1.6 years. The government noted that State Pension age policy accounts for people living longer and an ageing society.
Current State Pension age and future review
The State Pension age is currently 66, but it is being phased up to 67. The change began in April 2026 and is due to be fully in place by March 2028. The government said: "As longevity has increased and our society aged, State Pension age rises have maintained fairness between generations and protected the public finances."
The Third State Pension age Review is underway and will decide what State Pension age is appropriate for future decades, balancing considerations of fairness and sustainability.
Next steps for the petition
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it becomes eligible for consideration for a debate in Parliament. It is set to remain open until March 16, 2027. The push comes after Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently set out plans that would alter the triple lock system. Addressing the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester also said that low-income pensioners would be exempt from paying income tax during this Parliament.
