'Hands off triple lock' demand as inflation to raise pensions by £478

CAMPAIGNERS have warned politicians to “keep their hands off” the triple lock after predictions inflation could lead to a £478 increase in the state pension.

- By Jonathan Walker

Financial experts said the potential 4% rise would lead to questions about the affordability of the policy, following suggestions from the International Monetary Fund and think tank the Institute for Fiscal Studies that it may need to be replaced.

But organisations backing the elderly said the triple lock, which the Express is campaigning to keep, is vital to help pensioners cope with soaring bills.

Dennis Reed, director of Silver Voices, said: “A rise of 4% is barely keeping up with the cost of living.”