The Tories will today promise pensioners that a Tory government would cut their taxes and raise their pensions.

David Willetts, shadow social security secretary, will commit his party to above-inflation increases in the state pension, reductions in the form-filling required for some benefits and to an increase of £2000 in the personal tax allowance for those over 65.

Willetts will also promise that under a Tory government, pensioners could choose whether to receive free TV licences and winter allowances or to have their pensions consolidated.