Reform to commit to triple lock at next election after previous flip-flopping

Reform pledges triple lock pension policy for next election following internal disagreements

Robert Jenrick, Reform’s leader, is set to formally commit to maintaining the triple lock pension policy during the upcoming election, resolving a contentious debate within the party. This decision marks a significant shift after months of factional disputes over the measure.

Set against the backdrop of the local elections, Jenrick’s announcement will underscore his influence within the party, despite earlier wavering from Nigel Farage. In February, Farage had stated the triple lock’s future was ‘up for discussion,’ but Jenrick has consistently advocated for its retention, emphasizing the need for ‘dignity and security’ in retirement.

The triple lock, established in 2011, ensures state pension increases match the highest of three factors: inflation, average earnings, or 2.5%. A Reform Treasury representative recently affirmed his longstanding support for the policy, noting that the party’s stance will ‘not leave voters wanting.’

‘We’re going to say more about this, but it’s incredibly important that we provide dignity and security to older people on fixed incomes in the last decades of their life.’

Farage, however, reiterated that the policy remains ‘still up for debate,’ with his own stance unchanged. ‘Everything is up for debate,’ he added, highlighting ongoing uncertainty within the party.

Labour has floated the idea of gradually eliminating the triple lock, with pensions minister Torsten Bell suggesting it might already align pensions with average earnings. This contrasts with Reform’s pledge, which aligns them with the Conservatives, who have also opted to keep the policy for now.

Kemi Badenoch, Conservative spokesperson, stated that the triple lock would not be scrapped during the Autumn Budget, but she would assess its future after Labour’s potential reforms. Meanwhile, the policy’s financial implications will be felt in April, with the Treasury facing an extra £6bn due to a 4.7% rise to £12,548 annually.

Tory officials criticized Reform’s commitment, calling the party ‘all over the place on the triple lock.’ They argued that Jenrick is ‘strong-arming’ Farage into supporting unfunded initiatives as the local election campaign intensifies. ‘Jenrick’s colleagues should watch their backs,’ one source remarked.

Age UK expressed approval of the announcement, with Charity Director Caroline Abrahams highlighting the policy’s benefits. ‘The Triple Lock should be retained into the next Parliament,’ she said, noting its role in enhancing the living standards of vulnerable pensioners. The additional support from the triple lock, she added, ‘makes a meaningful difference to many lives.’