THE Equality Bill currently working its way through Parliament is a significant win for older people who have been waiting for years to gain the same protections from discrimination as other groups in society.

However, the Bill is still not everything we have been hoping for. Key regulations for protecting older people in health and social care and in the financial sector will not be part of the Bill in this Parliament.

There is also no word yet from the Government on whether they have plans to scrap the unfair and widely unpopular national default retirement age of 65.

I’ve written to my MP asking that they, and their party, stand up for older voters and give their wholehearted support to the Equality Bill. They must also make a clear pledge to introduce an unbreakable legal commitment of strong regulations as soon as possible and to discard forced retirement.

I urge your readers to do the same by supporting the Just Equal Treatment campaign led by Age Concern and Help the Aged.

They can take action by calling 0207–239–1982 or going to helptheaged.org.uk This is a critical issue for older people and if we don’t hear the right noises soon, we will vote with our feet at the General Election.

Graham Wright, Darlington.