Pension reforms not done in a 'big rush', says Danny Alexander

clock

Danny Alexander, chief secretary to the Treasury, has hit back at claims the government is pushing through its wide-ranging pension reforms "in a big rush" ahead of next year's general election.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Liberal Democrat Alexander said that, now freedoms have been offered to the public, it would want policymakers to "get on and do them". In March, Chancellor George Osborne announced key changes to the taxation of pensions, giving retirees greater access to their savings from April next year and effectively ending the need to buy an annuity. During the Radio 4 programme, it was suggested to Alexander that it had not gone unnoticed the reforms will be introduced shortly before the general election in 2015. "I don't think it's fair to say we are doing this in ...

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

Pension adequacy – are we focusing on the wrong measure of success?

Pension adequacy – are we focusing on the wrong measure of success?

'The current system can unintentionally create a false sense of reassurance'

Caitlin Southall
clock 24 July 2026 • 4 min read
Transfer changes 'a start, not the finish line', pensions industry says

Transfer changes 'a start, not the finish line', pensions industry says

Clear and practical guidance ‘essential’ to apply the new framework consistently and with confidence

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 23 July 2026 • 4 min read
Financial Vulnerability Taskforce calls on advisers to rethink retirement planning

Financial Vulnerability Taskforce calls on advisers to rethink retirement planning

Publishes guide suggesting to ‘move beyond a pensions-only approach’

Sophia Panayi
clock 22 July 2026 • 2 min read