Labour to appoint older people’s commissioner

Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Rachel Reeves will set out Labour’s older people’s manifesto with a promise to ensure the voice of the retired is heard in Government.

Labour’s elderly focus sees the party commit to handing presenter and campaigner Miriam O’Reilly an independent advisory role.

Ms O’Reilly said: “Older people have a vital role to play in our society, yet I constantly hear from older people that they are frightened of the future and feeling vulnerable in a society which does not see their worth. After a lifetime of contributing to our country, they feel growing older has made them invisible.

“That’s why I would be delighted to take on this important role in a future Labour Government.

“Our older generation needs to be championed because otherwise we are in danger of missing out on a vast resource of talent, knowledge and experience.”

Leeds politician Ms Reeves said Labour will reaffirm the ‘triple lock’ on the state pension and crack down on mis-selling of retirement income products.

She said: “I am delighted that Miriam O’Reilly has agreed to work with the next Labour government to champion the rights of older people and pensioners.

“On David Cameron’s watch, the NHS has gone backwards and far too many older people have faced inadequate 15- minute social care visits.”