Although making any kind of political prediction at present is a fool's errand, it seems to be a question of when, rather than if, we get the next Pensions Bill. The indications are that a Bill will be included in the next Queen's speech. It now appears that this will take place "at the end of May". However, with the timing of her departure still unknown, your bet is as good as mine as to when the Bill will actually emerge.But, what can we expect when it is finally introduced? Read more
6 April is the start of the new tax year. It is also a common commencement date for legislative changes. This year, key changes affecting pensions from 6 April 2019 (unless otherwise stated) include Read more
On Monday, in its response to the consultation on protecting DB pension schemes and strengthening the Pensions Regulator, the Government confirmed its plans to: introduce a new criminal offence of wilful or reckless behaviour in relation to a defined benefit (DB) pension scheme (aimed at company directors) give the Pensions Regulator the power to issue … Read more
This is one of the questions posed by the DWP in its consultation on the Pensions Ombudsman's dispute resolution powers and jurisdiction issued just before Christmas. The consultation lacks detail on what is meant by mediation, simply suggesting that provision should be made for an Early Resolution Service and to allow the Pensions Ombudsman to ‘mediate’ and ‘resolve’ complaints and disputes before a determination.It is important that this consultation is taking place now, because the role of the Pensions Ombudsman's service is evolving. Read more
Preview 2019 highlights legal and regulatory developments to look out for this year across a range of areas. It also identifies key trends that we can expect to see feature prominently in the legal and regulatory landscape this year. Read more
While all the talk at Westminster over the past few weeks has been about “legal backstops”, judging from the consultation on DB consolidation, the talk at Caxton House has clearly been about “regulatory gateways”. Whilst the constitutional significance of these two legal mechanisms cannot be compared, there are a few striking similarities worth drawing out Read more
