Badenoch's Comments Ignite Controversy Over Pension Policy

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, has sparked controversy by suggesting the potential means-testing of the state pension's triple lock, which traditionally guarantees annual increases based on inflation, earnings, or a minimum of 2.5%. During an LBC phone-in, she indicated a need for a reassessment of how benefits are allocated, stating that means-testing is not adequately addressed in the UK. Opposition parties, particularly Labour and the Liberal Democrats, have seized on her comments, accusing her of planning to cut pension benefits and urging her to clarify her position. Badenoch later termed reports of her plans to means-test the triple lock as 'fake news,' asserting that the Conservatives remain committed to protecting it. However, her remarks have drawn sharp criticism from within her party, with Pensions Minister Torsten Bell calling the idea 'plain bonkers' and warning that means-testing could undermine private pension savings. The situation highlights internal divisions within the Conservative Party and the challenges Badenoch faces in her leadership role.