Webb: Defined ambition pensions are still on the table

Jenna Towler
clock

Pensions Minister Steve Webb says he remains committed to defined ambition (DA) despite the Budget scrapping restrictions on how people take their pensions income at retirement.

Last month, Chancellor George Osborne said anyone over 55 would be able to take their entire pensions as cash from April 2015, subject to the marginal rate of income tax. Shadow pensions minister Gregg McClymont challenged Webb's DA hopes in light of the Budget, questioning whether it could be successful considering its reliance on intergenerational risk sharing. Speaking at the Baker Tilly pensions conference on Thursday, Webb reaffirmed his vision for DA, arguing savers would continue to value certainty in retirement. He said there would still be demand for risk-pooling and risk...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Pensions

IHT pensions changes expected to drive 'strong interest' in annuities

IHT pensions changes expected to drive 'strong interest' in annuities

Though ‘ambiguity’ persists on annuities treatment, retirement planning expert says

Jen Frost
clock 04 November 2024 • 3 min read
Budget end to overseas pensions 'loophole' could cause 'chaos'

Budget end to overseas pensions 'loophole' could cause 'chaos'

OTC applies to more transfers under changes

Jen Frost
clock 31 October 2024 • 2 min read
Pensions tax-free cash untouched – but what about those who acted pre-Budget?

Pensions tax-free cash untouched – but what about those who acted pre-Budget?

No lump sum change should be ‘welcomed’ but damage cannot be undone

Isabel Baxter
clock 31 October 2024 • 5 min read