Pensions Minister Mike O' Brien argued in a Fabian lecture that we need to combat the "five giants" presented by an ageing society and develop a more positive language about old age, based on the "moral imperative" of equality and opportunity. 

In a speech echoing the themes of the Beveridge Report, O'Brien declared.  "Today, our ageing population presents us with five new giants."

"They are: poverty; loneliness; fraility; discrimination and; fear."

"These are the barriers that can turn later life into endurance.  Without radical action, these five giants could become stronger as our population ages."

The lecture called for "a new language for old age" so that we challenge assumptions about old age and "seek to build bridges between the generations."

"Today ageism is the acceptable face of prejudice," he said. 

"Life chances don't end at 30.  Nor do they end at 60.  There is a moral imperative for age equality if we are to adapt to the major demographic changes accruing in our society."

The lecture took place on Tuesday 15th July in the Grand Committee Room of the House of Commons at 4.30pm.

Full text of speech

For more information please contact Ed Wallis

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