\n The petition, created by Richard Sobey MBE, says the current full New State Pension of \u00a312,564 is not enough to provide what it describes as a minimum standard of living for people aged 66 and over.\n<\/p>\n
\n It calls for the minimum State Pension to be set at \u00a314,500 \u2013 an increase of \u00a31,936 a year.\n<\/p>\n
\n The campaign compares the current pension with the wages available to younger workers.\n<\/p>\n
\n According to the petition, even the National Minimum Wage for under-18s works out at \u00a314,560 a year, based on a 35-hour week and 52 weeks of work.\n<\/p>\n
\n It states: \u201cMy full New State Pension is only \u00a312,564 after working for a lifetime.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n The petition adds: \u201cI believe for 65+ a minimum UK standard of living is \u00a314,500 and the State Pension should match this.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n It also argues that the UK compares poorly with other European countries when it comes to State Pension provision.\n<\/p>\n
\n The petition states: \u201cThe full New State Pension lags well behind those in Europe (UK only 13th of 28).\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n It goes on to highlight the difference between pension payments and minimum wage rates for younger workers.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cEven an apprentice, or under 18 worker, is now legislated to earn a salary of at least \u00a314,560.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n The campaign argues that people who have spent decades paying National Insurance and taxes should receive a higher retirement income.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cFor those who have worked and paid NI and taxes all their lives, we believe a full State Pension of \u00a312,564 is just not fair and equitable and the State Pension should be at least the \u00a314,500 necessary for a minimum standard of living for retirees.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n Thousands back call for DWP State Pension from age 60 and increase to \u00a3610.08 a week https:\/\/t.co\/6nymUfSMI0<\/a>\n <\/p>\n \n \u2014 The Northern Echo (@TheNorthernEcho) August 10, 2026<\/a>\n <\/p>\n How many people need to sign the petition?<\/p>\n \n The petition was published on 28 July 2026. It needs 10,000 signatures to receive a Government response and 100,000 signatures for it to be considered for debate in Parliament.\n<\/p>\n