ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews developments in public policies towards older workers in the last 20 years. It shows that despite supposed growing awareness among policy makers, radical policies which might have a significant effect on older workers' employment patterns have yet to emerge. The chapter discusses the history of public policies towards younger and older workers. It also shows that the state has played an important role in extending the length of time many people will spend in the third age class. The chapter describes that, in terms of public policy, younger people have tended to fare much better than older workers. It sets out, in broad terms, ways in which public policies on age discrimination and older workers might develop and identifies areas where problems might arise. The chapter examines despite signs that it was going to be radical while in opposition, much of the present Labour government's approach to older workers has shown a familiar pattern.
