The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has moved to quell widespread anxiety among pensioners by definitively ruling out the means-testing of the State Pension.
Parliamentary Confirmation Puts Fears to Rest
During a session in the House of Commons, Pat McFadden, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, provided a major update in response to concerns raised by Labour backbencher Catherine Fookes, the MP for Monmouthshire. Ms Fookes had highlighted the deep concern among her constituents, many of whom are pensioners with modest savings, following comments made by a Conservative shadow minister.
She referenced the Conservative party conference, where the shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury had previously suggested means-testing the State Pension. Ms Fookes directly asked the Secretary of State to confirm that, under the Labour Government, the payment will remain available to all.
A Political Counter-Attack in the Commons
In his response on 20 November 2025, Mr McFadden was unequivocal. I am happy to say that what (Ms Fookes) says about means-testing is not the Government's policy, he stated. He then turned the question back on the Opposition, asking if they could confirm whether it was now their policy, noting that the shadow Chief Secretary let the cat out of the bag.
When Helen Whately, the Conservative shadow work and pensions minister, took her turn, she avoided the question entirely. Instead, she criticised the government's previous approach to welfare savings. Mr McFadden seized on this evasion, replying, I notice that (Ms Whately) did not want to clarify the position on means-testing the State Pension.
Focus Shifts to Wider Welfare Reform
The DWP chief concluded by shifting the focus to the government's ongoing welfare reforms. He highlighted that the administration is concentrating on important changes to the Universal Credit system and implementing important employment support programmes. These initiatives are designed to help long-term sick and disabled people, as well as young people, find work.
This firm declaration from the highest level of the DWP provides clear and immediate reassurance to millions of pensioners across the UK who depend on the State Pension as a fundamental part of their retirement income.
