DISADVANTAGED pensioners could lose more than £7,000 a year in a “stealth cut” introduced while all eyes are focused on Brexit, Age UK has warned.

The government’s changes to pension credit announced on Monday night means that from May 15, couples where only one partner is over the state pension age of 65 will no longer receive the support.

Age UK warned that if a mixed-age couple temporarily loses their eligibility for pension credit, they will be unable to regain it and will be thrown onto the universal credit regime.

Charity director Caroline Abrahams said: “It’s a substantial stealth cut — a couple claiming in the future could receive £140 less per week than an older mixed couple claiming before the change comes in.

“For some, the impact will be truly devastating. The government should think again.”

Pensions Minister Guy Opperman argued the change will ensure that the same work incentives apply to the younger partner as to those of the same age, and taxpayer support is “directed where it is needed most.”