Rally calls for higher pensions

A rally has been held in Glasgow by campaigners who want the level of the state pension raised.

Organised by the Scottish Pensioners' Forum (SPF) , the rally's aim was to highlight claims that one-in-four pensioners is living in poverty.

The first ever state pension act was introduced in 1908. It eventually became a contributory, pay-as-you-go scheme of National Insurance in 1946.

The rally, at Glasgow's George Square, attracted about 200 people.

Doreen Kean, of the SPF, said there were calls at the event for a windfall tax on energy companies.

She said: "The problem of fuel poverty in the current climate was a major issue.

"Some pensioners are having to decide whether they can afford to heat their house or feed themselves."

Speakers at the rally included Liberal Democrat MP for East Dunbartonshire Jo Swinson, Labour MP for Glasgow South West Ian Davidson and SNP MSP for Glasgow Sandra White.