Steve Webb: One political career that didn't end in failure

Malcolm McLean pays tribute to former pensions minister Steve Webb

clock •

Malcolm McLean pays tribute to former pensions minister Steve Webb...

In what his party leader described as a night of pain and anguish for the Liberal Democrats, Steve Webb lost his constituency seat in Thornbury and Yate to the Conservative representative last week. He had been an MP since 1997 and, over the last five years as pension minister in the coalition government, had been instrumental in overseeing some of the biggest changes to the UK retirement market for decades. It is often said that all political careers end in failure but, in Steve's case, if in fact his political career is now at an end, that surely cannot be true. Both as an MP in opp...

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

FCA data reveals 'notable advice gap' in drawdown

FCA data reveals 'notable advice gap' in drawdown

Almost half of pots entering drawdown now do so without regulated advice

Sophia Panayi
clock 24 September 2026 • 2 min read
Action 'needed now' on salary sacrifice to minimise disruption

Action 'needed now' on salary sacrifice to minimise disruption

LCP says early preparation will help employers navigate the transition

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 24 September 2026 • 2 min read
Self-employed face retirement saving 'obstacle course'

Self-employed face retirement saving 'obstacle course'

‘Structural gap’ in participation between employees and self-employed

Martin Richmond
clock 22 September 2026 • 4 min read