The basic idea is that someone starting work under the new “single tier” pension rules will build up just one state pension. It will be set above the level of the basic means test – currently £142.70 per week – and the full rate will be payable for 35 years of National Insurance contributions (NICs). As at present, there will be credits for those who cannot pay NICs because of caring responsibilities, and the new rules will particularly benefit many older women, whose time at home with children has damaged their state pension entitlements. Each individual will qualify for a pension in their own right, with no complex rules about claiming pensions based on someone else’s NICs.