Blog: Decent pensions are not a political trading chip

In what cynics would have called inevitable, the government yesterday backed down on auto-enrolment plans.

clock

In what cynics would have called inevitable, the government yesterday backed down on auto-enrolment plans.

Pensions minister Steve Webb announced auto-enrolment will be delayed by a year for all businesses with fewer than 50 employees, and firms with up to 3,000 employees could also have their staging dates pushed back. Employer groups have long argued for exemptions for small businesses, delays and reduced contribution minimums for their members, citing the squeeze on business caused by the recession as their reasoning. The government could not build its entire mandate on stimulating the economy and then place a huge burden on businesses. Webb has said auto-enrolment will still go ahea...

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

Pensioner poverty has risen for more than a decade, warns LCP

Pensioner poverty has risen for more than a decade, warns LCP

Single and divorced pensioners most affected and should be focus for future policy

Alex Levy
clock 18 August 2026 • 4 min read
Why reliable SIPP administration matters more than ever

Why reliable SIPP administration matters more than ever

This is a classic 'sledgehammer to crack a nut' response

Rachel Vahey
clock 17 August 2026 • 3 min read
PCLS after age 75: Addressing a common misconception

PCLS after age 75: Addressing a common misconception

Pension legislation does not impose an upper age limit on the payment of PCLS

Caitlin Southall
clock 14 August 2026 • 4 min read