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

Why waiving the right to tax-free cash is not a straightforward decision

Why waiving the right to tax-free cash is not a straightforward decision

Depends on a number of factors

Lisa Webster
clock 14 May 2026 • 3 min read
King's Speech has limited impact on pensions

King's Speech has limited impact on pensions

Pensions UK says there may be pension implications from other aspects of the legislative programme

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 13 May 2026 • 1 min read
Pensions and divorce: Where advisers can add the most value

Pensions and divorce: Where advisers can add the most value

'A pension is not simply another line on a balance sheet'

Tim Latham
clock 12 May 2026 • 4 min read