**Campaigners Lash Out Amid Fears Retirees Will Be Clobbered By Stealth Tax Raid**

Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing mounting pressure over Labour's pension policies, with campaign groups issuing a stark warning that could have serious consequences for the party's electoral prospects. Concerns are growing that retirees could be hit with a "stealth tax raid" under a future Labour government, prompting a vocal backlash.

The crux of the issue lies in anxieties surrounding potential changes to pension taxation. While Labour has been relatively tight-lipped about specific plans, the lack of clarity has fueled fears that existing tax benefits for pensioners could be scaled back or eliminated altogether. Campaigners argue that any such move would disproportionately affect those on fixed incomes, potentially pushing vulnerable individuals into financial hardship.

The criticism centers on the potential impact on retirees who have diligently saved throughout their working lives, relying on existing pension arrangements to provide financial security in their later years. Campaigners argue that altering these arrangements would be a breach of trust and a betrayal of those who have contributed to the system.

The "election armageddon" warning underscores the political sensitivity of the issue. Pensioners are a significant voting bloc, and any perceived threat to their financial well-being could alienate a large swathe of the electorate. This is particularly crucial in constituencies with a high proportion of older voters, where even a small shift in support could have a decisive impact on election results.

The pressure on Reeves to address these concerns is intensifying. Campaign groups are calling for greater transparency and clarity on Labour's pension plans, demanding assurances that retirees will not be unfairly targeted. They emphasize the need for a sustainable and equitable pension system that provides security for both current and future generations, without resorting to measures that penalize those who have already planned for their retirement.

The coming weeks are likely to see increased scrutiny of Labour's stance on pensions, as the party navigates the delicate balance between addressing fiscal challenges and maintaining the support of a crucial voting demographic. The outcome could well determine the party's fate at the next general election.