News
EFA Comments on DWP Statement
24 June 2010
Iain Duncan Smith and Steve Webb have today outlined steps to reform the retirement system in the UK, including consulting on how to quickly phase out the Default Retirement Age. Rachel Krys, Campaign Director of leading age campaigners, the Employers Forum on Age (EFA), commented:
"The Employers Forum on Age (EFA) welcomes confirmation from the DWP that it is seeking to reform the retirement system and in particular that it will consult on the Default Retirement Age (DRA). Ian Duncan Smith today went as far as to say that people should not be forced to retire, that [if allowed to continue working] they benefit from a better quality of life and standard of living. The EFA hopes that the Government will stand by this commitment and abolish the default retirement age, not ‘phase it out' which could be more complex for employers. Employers should not fear the removal of the DRA; many of our members, including Government departments report that operating without the DRA has resulted in significant business benefits.
The default retirement age is fundamentally discriminatory, based on the assumption that age affects someone's ability to do their job. We have been campaigning against the default retirement age for many years and work with employers to put the policies and processes in place to make the most of an age diverse workforce. Employers who manage people fairly throughout their careers are already experiencing the benefits."
For more information, or to arrange an interview, please contact the following:
Employers Forum on Age
Rachel Krys T: 07799 625 233 E: rachel.krys@efa.org.uk
Lansons Communications, Rimmi Shah
T: 0207 294 3670 E: rimmis@lansons.com