Reform UK proposes scrapping state pension for massive tax cuts

Reform UK claims that UK taxpayers face the highest tax burden as a share of GDP since World War Two and that the pension system is unsustainable, costing £146.1 billion annually—about two and a half times the defence budget. Citing intergenerational inequity, the party’s Centre for a Better Britain has drafted a blueprint to abolish the state pension and introduce £75 billion of tax cuts, including the removal of capital gains tax, inheritance tax, stamp duty on property and shares, digital service tax, air passenger duty and a 10-point corporate tax reduction over eight years.

The plan also foresees cuts to public services to reduce the overall size of government. Critics, such as Labour chairwoman Bridget Phillipson, argue the scheme would protect the richest while jeopardising retirees. The proposal is being floated ahead of a possible early election that Andy Burnham is reportedly considering, and its political viability remains uncertain.