‘I’m a pensioner and, yes, the triple lock has to go’

Readers discuss the benefits of losing the triple lock pension, rejoining the EU and cutting VAT on electricity bills (Picture: Getty Images) Do you agree with our readers? Have your say on these MetroTalk topics and more in the comments 'I believe my generation of Baby Boomers has enjoyed and ruined prospects for future generations' I read the letters from Kerry and Henry opposing Andy Burnham’s proposal to scrap the pension triple lock to help fund a National Care Service (MetroTalk, Thu). As a pensioner with no other income, I would defend the proposal, which won’t apply until 2030 in any case – by which time the world will be very different. I believe my generation of Baby Boomers has enjoyed and simultaneously ruined the prospects for future generations. As a parent and grandparent, my priority in life is to place the focus firmly on their welfare. Geoff, via email Wouldn’t other parties also get rid of the triple lock? Does Henry think any of the other parties would restore the triple lock if elected? Probably not. Mike, via email ‘I agree with Burnham about Brexit’ I agree with Burnham about Brexit, the transparent disaster it has been for our country and continent and the need to get on and rebuild relations with the EU – perhaps going ‘all the way’ by seeking to rejoin following a fit, democratic process (Metro, Thu). Time and again, we hear about Leave voters bemoaning their choice, often blaming the likes of Boris Johnson for misleading them, while a Remain voter who believes they voted the wrong way because they now see glories of Brexit would be a rare bird. Robert Hughes, London Would rejoining the EU cause a ‘minority to drift to Reform’? Burnham says he wouldn’t rule out rejoining the EU. Even if there’s a majority in favour, that policy could make a significant minority drift to Reform. Along with abolishing the triple lock, he seems to be acting as a recruiting sergeant for Nigel Farage. The PM’s only saving grace is his passion for the sacred union of Scotland and England. Alan Meadowcroft, via text ‘Small houses who have cut consumption to save money will get very little off’ Labour cutting VAT on domestic electricity may make for good headlines but it does not make for a fairer Britain. Those with large houses, lots of gadgets and presumably lots of money and high bills will benefit most. Those with small houses who have cut consumption to save money will get very little off. To help those most in need, VAT receipts should have been used to increase benefits that go to the poorest. Jon Burden, via email ‘I liked Burnham’s positivity’ Good to hear a plan to take our country back from the profit-making businesses. I liked Burnham’s positivity. Richard Cheetham, via Facebook Problem-solving rather than point-scoring is an ethic we can all get behind At his Conference speech, the PM called for people to have an open mind, to try to find consensus and value ‘problem-solving’ over ‘point-scoring’. Please let’s try to listen to each other and make our own decisions based on all the facts. Julie Lush, via Facebook ‘Let’s give each other hope’ The Labour Party Conference slogan ‘Hope Again’ is catchy. Let’s hope it catches on. I often see random acts of kindness, such as an elderly blind lady being assisted across the road the other day. We all need to play our part. Let’s all give each other hope! Richard, London Do you agree with our readers? Have your say on these MetroTalk topics and more in the comments Arrow MORE: Looking for a Barbour jacket alternative? M&S shoppers recommend this £110 style Arrow MORE: Kurt Geiger’s new Notting Hill collection is a love letter to London’s chaotic weather Arrow MORE: Prisoner released early says he’s off to KFC and jail is ‘not a good place’ Puzzles Newsletter Get your favourite puzzles when they are ready to play on the website sent directly to you every day and track your daily streak!