Don't forget that all these headline pension rates/increases are not applicable to those who retired (like me) before 2016. We get less despite having had to work more years to qualify...and with each %'age increase the gap gets wider between 'old' pension and 'new' pension. I really don't think that is equitable.

As for NHS...far too much management of poor quality...too many cosmetic operations etc that should not be free. . Although retired here in France - and although comfortable, not wealthy, the state will pay 70% of all medical costs (including prescriptions), the other 30% is optional as to whether you pay it as you need to or (mostly) pay insurance subscription to cover the remaining 30%. Seems sensible to avoid frivolous use of the service.

Also, a sensible idea here when paying tax.... it is based n the household, not the individual, so myself, my wife (not working) = 2 parts and my two sons = 0.5 part each. So tax allowance is for 3 people in effect.