IN days when heavy industry was the lot of the working class, the government, working on the truism that "hard work kills thousands", set the retirement age at 65.
Thousands slogged on for the last few years and more died than lived to draw their pension.
All of which made the pension scheme a nice little earner for the treasury.
As heavy industry declined and health care improved the balance shifted so now the proposed new age is to be 67 (or higher).
In a far driven, over-indulging, unhealthy diet society the government is hoping heart problems will see off just as many as hard work once did and the balance will shift back to treasury profit rather than loss.
The full impact of mass car ownership and bad diets has yet to materialise but I predict a reversal in life expectancy statistics.
D PRATT (Mr), Plantation Street, Accrington.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article