THE basic state pension will rise by at least £2.85 a week next April thanks to the Liberal Democrats’ triple lock, according to local MP Michael Moore.

It means 23,900 pensioners in the Borders will benefit from an increase in their pension.

This rise will bring the level of the state pension to at least £115.95 and is expected benefit millions of pensioners across the UK. This is £18.30 more, each week, than in 2010 when the Liberal Democrats entered coalition.

The triple lock delivers a pension rise of whichever is the greater of average earnings, inflation or 2.5%, meaning pensioners across the Borders will see more money in their pockets.

The Liberal Democrats campaigned for it in opposition, have delivered it in Government and have pledged to write it into law in the next Parliament.

Mr Moore, who represents Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk in the UK government, said: “Helping pensioners in the Borders is a key priority for me and for the Liberal Democrats. People remember that the Conservatives broke the link between pension increases and earnings.

“The Liberal Democrats’ “triple lock” ensures that pensioners are guaranteed the security of a steady rise in their pensions, allowing them to plan for their future and giving them dignity in their retirement.

“We have ensured that pensioners in the Borders are never again subjected to the indignity of the 75p rise or left behind when the earnings of other people are increasing.

“Remaining part of the UK also means that we retain the strength of our shared social security system and Scots pensioners will continue to enjoy a secure and fair pension.”