A report by the UK's Work and Pensions Committee has called for urgent action to address a delay in State Pension claims for individuals in their sixties with low incomes, warning that some could face poverty.
The committee of MPs is concerned that as the pension age increases from 66 to 67 over the next two years, individuals affected by the extended waiting period may experience financial hardship unless benefit rules are modified to provide additional support.
According to data from the Department for Work and Pensions, in February, 0.02% of the Universal Credit caseload comprised individuals aged 65 or 66. The department has stated it will consider the report's recommendations.
Housing Market Concerns
Separately, the report touches on growing unease within the housing industry regarding an increase in "gazundering." This practice involves buyers reducing their offer significantly just days before a property sale is due to be finalized, threatening the deal if the seller does not agree to the lower price.
The Conveyancing Association has identified this as a worsening issue and is urging the government to implement reforms to combat the practice promptly. The government has indicated it is addressing gazundering by introducing legally binding agreements designed to prevent last-minute withdrawals without a valid reason, with penalties for non-compliance.
Heating Grant Investigation
Additionally, the report notes that a grant intended for the installation of heating systems that can also function as air conditioning units, announced in November, has not yet been fully implemented. Further investigation is underway to understand the reasons for this delay.