Flat-rate state pension 'expected to start in 2017'

A new flat-rate state pension likely to start in April 2017 will be simpler than the current system of means-tested top-ups, the government has said.

The weekly payment will be £144 plus inflation rises between now and 2017.

The current full state pension is £107.45 a week, but can be topped up to £142.70 with pension credit.

Workers will have to make contributions for longer to qualify.

Hugh Pym reports.