Transitional State Pension Arrangements for Women

Debate between Shailesh Vara and John Redwood

Wednesday 24th February 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Vara]

If the hon. Gentleman is so proud of what the Labour Government did, why does he stand up to complain? They obviously did very little, and it must have had very little impact, because otherwise we would not be hearing the comments that Labour Members are making today.

[John Redwood (Wokingham) (Con)]

When it comes to equalisation, how much leeway do the UK Government have under EU law?

[Mr Vara]

EU law does require us to equalise pension ages. Later in my speech, I will mention countries that have already achieved what we are still endeavouring to achieve. Incidentally, the shadow Secretary of State was wrong in what he said about Germany. Germany has already achieved equalisation.