Frozen State Pensions Leave British Veteran Feeling Like a ‘Second-Class Citizen’
A British veteran, Peter Sanguinetti, is voicing his frustrations with the UK Government’s frozen state pensions policy. He feels like a “second-class citizen” because over 100,000 British retirees living in Canada are unable to receive annual pension increases. This situation stems from a longstanding policy that affects those who reside outside the UK.
Background of Peter Sanguinetti
Born in July 1939 in York, Mr. Sanguinetti grew up in a military family and was called for National Service in June 1959. He served as an infantryman in the Royal Hampshire Regiment and was later transferred to the Army Emergency Reserve. The Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 prompted his recall to military readiness.
Life After Service
Following his military career, Mr. Sanguinetti transitioned into civilian life. He began as a commercial apprentice at Bridport Industries and rose to senior roles, ultimately moving to Ontario, Canada, in April 1984 for career opportunities.
Impact of the Frozen Pensions Policy
The frozen pensions policy means that British retirees in Canada do not receive annual pension uprating, unlike their counterparts in the United States and Europe. Mr. Sanguinetti learned of this when he filed for his pension in 2008, discovering that it would never increase from the initial amount he claimed.
- More than 100,000 British pensioners in Canada have frozen pensions.
- Pensions in the US and Europe receive annual adjustments.
- Pensioners in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not benefit from this policy.
Mr. Sanguinetti highlights the disparities between British pensioners who live in different countries, noting that two individuals with identical National Insurance contributions can receive vastly different pension amounts solely based on their place of residence.
Struggles of Frozen Pensioners
The financial impact of this policy has forced many frozen pensioners into hardship. Mr. Sanguinetti and his wife lead a frugal lifestyle, having cut back on luxuries due to their fixed income. The End Frozen Pensions Campaign reports that many affected individuals have faced reduced standards of living and increased reliance on local welfare systems.
Political Implications
The discussion around frozen pensions is gaining traction, especially as Canada considers legislation that could potentially alter trade agreements with the UK. The Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has called for changes, suggesting that Canada has significant leverage in negotiations.
Conclusion
Mr. Sanguinetti believes there is no moral justification for treating British pensioners differently based on their country of residence. He calls on the UK Government to reconsider the frozen pensions policy, emphasizing the contributions and sacrifices made by veterans like himself.
As discussions intensify, the future of the frozen pensions policy remains uncertain, but the call for change continues to grow among affected individuals and advocates.
