The pensions paid are counted as part of the welfare budget but they are paid out to people who in the main have contributed throughout their working lifetimes: unlike so many today that fill out a form (picture Baldrick here) say “oooooh my head hurts” and hold out their hands.
When brought into existence the Labour Party never envisaged it as a ‘lifestyle’ choice which some have made it.
There are people who need support and always will be but this group seems to be a ever smaller part of the overall number, thus those in real need get caught up in the backlash of the cost as the welfare bill rises.
I know because I saw and experienced it first hand when working for the Citizens Advice.
good luck to all
