SINCE Labour formed a government, approximately 3.2 million pensioners have benefited from Pension Credit, which means no pensioner lives on less than £109 a week.

Along with this aid to pensioners, the basic state pension has increased by 7% over-and-above inflation, and pensioners over 75 have received free TV licenses.

Also, all pensioners have received the tax-free winter fuel payment of £200 with those over 80 receiving £300.

These are just some of the benefits the Government has provided to pensioners, and the Labour party has committed to doing even more now it has won the General Election.

And along with committing itself to pensioners' benefits, the Labour party has pledged to tackle age discrimination.

Many people are living longer and healthier lives, and the party wants to provide more opportunities for those older people who want to continue working, as there is much to benefit from the knowledge and experience of older employees.

Yet, the challenge lies with those who do wish to work but are caring for a sick or elderly relative, so that balancing work and care-giving becomes nearly impossible. Therefore, Labour has proposed to extend the right to request flexible working to carers.

The Tories have been criticised for their introduction of VAT on fuel bills and elimination of free eye-tests during their years in government. But it was this Labour government that returned free eye-tests and reduced the VAT on fuel to the lowest rate possible as set by EU law.

Labour has pledged to continue with pensioners benefits by continuing to invest in the NHS and not to subsidise private operations.

It will endorse the Pension Protection Fund, so no pensioner suffers when their company folds, and will pay an additional £200 to households with a person over 65 who is expected to pay Council Tax.

I am proud to say Wales is setting the way to take better care of our elders, as our pensioners already benefit from free bus travel and free swimming.

This Government has reduced pensioner poverty and, with a third term, pensioners can expect further improvement.

Living standards for pensioners under the Tories were deplorable, but I can assure voters that under Labour pensioners will never again have to fear returning to that disheartening state.

MARTYN JONES

Clwyd South MP