Dr Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, for what reason UK pensioners who have (a) fully contributed throughout their working lives and (b) moved abroad after retirement have their state pension frozen at the rate which applied when they emigrated; and if she will (i) review the ethical basis of and (ii) take steps to bring an end to that practice.  [124935]

[Due for Answer on 23 February]

ANSWER

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Pensions and Financial Inclusion (Guy Opperman): The policy on the up-rating of UK State Pensions overseas is longstanding and has been supported by successive Governments for over 70 years. There are no plans to change this policy. This Government continues to take the view that priority should be given to those living in Great Britain when drawing up expenditure plans for pensioner benefits.