Suddenly, the state pension is a 'benefit'. Then there are discussions about means testing. I'm getting the feeling that a growing number of people are beginning to resent those of us of a certain age. And that's without the government's attitude to us pesky oldies.

Joanne Brooks The state pension has been classed as a benefit since 1946. If there is any resentment, it's possibly because so many pensioners don't understand their pensions are funded by today's workers. Too many think they've actually paid for their own state pension.

Nic Millar Joanne Brooks And today's pensioners used to be the today's workers who funded other people's pensions. All part of belonging to a society. I think pensioners can just about grasp the concept, but thanks for the explanation.

Dr Eric Farmer Joanne Brooks You're welcome. It seems many on here don't understand at all.

Nic Millar Dr Eric Farmer Joanne Brooks So today’s pensioners paid the pensions of others when they were working. Is it too hard for you to do the same on the basis that you will grow old and a younger generation will pay your pension.

Elm Nic Millar Dr Eric Farmer Joanne Brooks The current generation is much smaller than the previous one; while the triple lock means higher pensions than ever before. You're making younger generations pay more than you ever did, so that you can get more than older generations ever did. Seems a bit entitled.