State pension age of 70-plus by 2050 'inevitable'

clock

The state pension age is set to rise more quickly than anticipated, according to experts, after official statistics showed the extent to which life expectancy had increased over the last century.

Barnett Waddingham senior consultant Malcolm McLean said it appeared "inevitable" that people would not be able to draw their state pension until 70 at the earliest by 2050. Figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed life expectancy at birth has increased by nearly three years a decade, and that a 60-year-old could expect to live nine years longer today than 100 years ago. With the government intent on ensuring people spend a third of their life in retirement, McLean (pictured) believes the state retirement age will rise "much faster" than expected. He sai...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Pensions

 Rachel Vahey: Advisers and clients still need clarity on NMPA increase

Rachel Vahey: Advisers and clients still need clarity on NMPA increase

'HMRC has had years to clear this up but has sat on its hands'

Rachel Vahey
clock 11 March 2026 • 4 min read
Pension freedoms exposed a longevity problem we still refuse to confront

Pension freedoms exposed a longevity problem we still refuse to confront

'The gap between product complexity and consumer understanding is not narrowing'

Julia Fintz
clock 11 March 2026 • 4 min read
Complex Hartley Pensions administration continues amid 'misappropriated funds' investigation

Complex Hartley Pensions administration continues amid 'misappropriated funds' investigation

Administration expected to conclude in 2027

Isabel Baxter
clock 10 March 2026 • 3 min read