I will probably get flamed for this but ...

[glitterytrainers]

When anyone talks about pensioners they say that the person has worked all their life, deserve their pension, free bus pass etc. Do you think it is possible in the near future that there are going to be a whole bunch of pensioners who have never worked a day in their life? I certainly know a few who have never paid into the system but will get the same pension as me. And no, I'm not talking about disabled people or people with chronic illnesses or carers.

The state pension is a standard amount based on the number of years you have paid NI.
A SAHP has some years credited, while their DC are young called Home Responsibilities or similar.
Someone on JSA also have their NI credited.
So, yes, their state pension will technically be the same.
However, if you have been working, you should have had the opportunity to contribute to an occupational pension, and therefore you will get more.

Note the State Pension changed a few years ago to a higher but standard amount, compared to the previous version which is lower, with additional Serps etc

Tellme

What do you suggest we do? Withhold benefits from people who don't behave themselves?

I think that becomes a slippery slope quickly.

OP, the whole point of national insurance is to a make sure that we all get a minimum pension. It’s a big pool to help us all out. If you want more you have to pay into a private pension. The minimum pension is not going to keep any of us in style but it should stop us starving.