Labour Under Fire : The political landscape in the UK is heating up once again, as the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union sharply criticises the Labour Party over proposed changes to the pension age. With the government’s plans to increase the pension age by 2025, millions of workers—especially those in physically demanding sectors—could face extended working years. The RMT has responded by pledging a series of nationwide protests, marking a fresh chapter in Britain’s battle over retirement rights.
What’s Changing in 2025?
From August 2025, the state pension age in the UK is expected to rise from 66 to 67, affecting both current workers nearing retirement and future generations. While the government argues that the change is necessary due to increased life expectancy and financial pressures on the public pension system, critics believe it places an unfair burden on working-class citizens.
This move is especially controversial because it contradicts earlier Labour promises to protect workers’ retirement rights. The backlash has been swift and vocal, especially from labour unions like the RMT, who represent thousands of railway and transport workers.
RMT’s Reaction to the Pension Age Rise
The RMT union has taken a firm stance, calling the pension age increase “shocking” and “unjust.” They argue that raising the pension age further erodes the rights of workers who have contributed to the system for decades, often in physically challenging jobs. According to RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch, many members of the union will simply not live long enough to benefit from the extra year of work they’re being asked to commit to.
The union says it is preparing to launch widespread protests, including industrial action, marches, and collaboration with other trade unions. Their message is simple: working people deserve a dignified and timely retirement—not an extended sentence of labour.
Why the Anger Is Directed at Labour
Although the decision was long in the making and builds on previous governments’ plans, the timing of Labour’s apparent support—or at least, lack of clear opposition—has struck a nerve. Labour had long been seen as the political ally of working people and unions. However, the party’s current leadership under Keir Starmer is facing criticism for not vocally resisting the pension age increase.
Many RMT members and supporters feel betrayed, arguing that Labour is drifting too far from its working-class roots. The tension is especially intense because Labour has traditionally relied on union support, both politically and financially.
What the Government Says
The official reasoning for the rise in pension age is centred around economic sustainability. With people living longer and the number of retirees increasing, the government claims that the pension system needs to evolve to remain financially viable.
A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson stated that the decision was based on evidence from demographic data and independent reviews. They added that the change is part of a long-term plan to ensure the pension system remains fair and affordable for future generations.
However, many are questioning the fairness of applying a one-size-fits-all solution. Life expectancy, after all, varies significantly across regions and professions. A white-collar worker in London may live far longer than a manual labourer in northern England—yet both are expected to work until the same age.
Impact on Workers Across the UK
The pension age rise will disproportionately impact manual workers, who tend to start work earlier and endure more physical strain throughout their careers. Many of these workers are employed in industries represented by the RMT, such as rail transport, logistics, and infrastructure.
Older workers may also face challenges in staying employed due to age discrimination, health concerns, and skill mismatches. Extending the working age could thus force many into early retirement with reduced benefits or worse—unemployment with no pension safety net.
There’s also the mental health aspect. Knowing that you’ll need to work an extra year before you can retire can cause additional stress and anxiety, especially for those already counting down to retirement.
How Other Unions Are Responding
The RMT is not alone in its protest. Several other UK trade unions have expressed concerns over the pension age increase. Unite, GMB, and PCS are reportedly in discussions about joint demonstrations and coordinated campaigns.
These unions argue that there needs to be a more flexible approach to retirement—one that considers both years of service and the nature of the work involved. They are pushing for policies that allow earlier retirement for those in high-risk or high-stress roles.
Unions are also urging their members to participate in public demonstrations and write to their local MPs to demand a rethink of the 2025 pension changes.
Public Sentiment on Pension Age Changes
A recent YouGov poll found that nearly 65% of UK citizens oppose the rise in the pension age. Many respondents feel that the government has not adequately communicated the reasons behind the move, nor the long-term consequences.
Public opinion is especially strong among older workers, many of whom were already concerned about retirement savings, healthcare costs, and inflation. The cost of living crisis has also made retirement seem even more distant for many, adding fuel to the fire.
With public dissatisfaction growing, political analysts suggest that this issue could become a major talking point in the next general election.
Could Labour Reverse the Decision?
It’s still unclear whether Labour would reconsider or reverse the pension age increase if they return to power. Some MPs within the party have expressed concern about the backlash and are urging party leaders to take a firmer stance.
There are talks within certain Labour circles about proposing a tiered pension system—one that allows early retirement for those in physically demanding jobs. However, no official policy shift has been announced as of yet.
The pressure from RMT and other unions might force the party to clarify its position ahead of the 2025 election season.
What You Should Do If You’re Affected
If you’re nearing retirement age and worried about these changes, it’s important to stay informed. Visit the official GOV.UK website for the latest updates on pension age regulations, and check your personal pension forecast using the online State Pension calculator.
You may also want to:
- Speak to a financial advisor about your retirement plans
- Consider contributing more to a private pension scheme
- Monitor union actions and upcoming protests
- Contact your MP to share your views
Preparing ahead can help you minimise the impact of any sudden policy changes.
What Happens Next?
The coming months will be crucial. As the RMT and other unions ramp up their campaigns, political leaders will be forced to respond. If protests gain momentum, we may see parliamentary debates or even proposed amendments to the pension reform policy.
What remains to be seen is whether Labour can regain the trust of its traditional voter base. For now, the party is facing growing criticism from the very communities it claims to represent.
FAQs on UK Pension Age Protest 2025
Q1. When will the pension age increase take effect in the UK?
The new pension age of 67 is expected to take effect in August 2025.
Q2. Who is leading the protest against the pension age rise?
The RMT union is at the forefront, with support from other major trade unions like Unite and GMB.
Q3. Why is the Labour Party under criticism?
Labour is being criticised for not firmly opposing the pension age rise, despite its traditional support for worker rights.
Q4. What can workers do to oppose the change?
Workers can join union protests, contact their MPs, and participate in campaigns to urge policy reconsideration.
Q5. Will this affect existing pensioners?
No, the change will not impact those already receiving the state pension—it applies to people approaching retirement after 2025.
