CHRISTCHURCH MP Sir Christopher Chope was the only Conservative MP to back a Labour motion for the state pension triple lock to maintained.

The opposition party tabled the non-binding motion calling on the Government to maintain the commitment in 2023/24.

MPs voted 218 to zero in favour of the move, with Sir Christopher the only Tory to cast a vote in favour, according to the official division list.

The triple lock on state pensions was a guarantee that it would not lose value in real terms and that it would increase at least in line with inflation.

The Conservative Party made a manifesto commitment in 2019 to ensure it remained in force, however, it was temporarily suspended last year.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt are currently mulling whether to raise state pensions and benefits in line with inflation, as they consider imposing up to £60 billion in tax rises and spending cuts in the autumn budget on November 17.

Asked why he supported the Labour motion in parliament on Tuesday, November 8, Sir Christopher told the Daily Echo “I am surprised I am unique”.

“The motion basically set out the history and it said it was in our manifesto that we would support the triple lock on pensions. It was asking government to abide by that manifesto commitment and the promises it made.

“I cannot understand why we should not be following our promises and commitments.

“I thought it was good to put down a marker and I have never been a great one for abstaining. I believe it is better for people to know where you stand.”

Sir Christopher said he met constituents in Somerford on Wednesday who were mostly pensioners and he assured them that the pension would be rising with inflation next year.

He said a lot of people in politics saw failure to make an indication as not having made a decision, but he was “sure government had made up its mind”.

Asked for his views on Mr Sunak’s premiership, the backbench Conservative MP said it was “early days”.

He added: “We will have to suck it and see but I am very pleased Gavin Williamson has resigned. In my view he should have been sacked.”