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

Govt moves to tackle gender pension gap with LPGS scheme changes

Govt moves to tackle gender pension gap with LPGS scheme changes

Reforms follow consultation on access and fairness in the Local Government Pension Scheme

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 03 February 2026 • 2 min read
Britain's pension ambition is rising - just as cash resilience slips

Britain's pension ambition is rising - just as cash resilience slips

'2026's 'pension resolution' wave is real. But so is the cash-cushion squeeze'

Phillip Wickenden
clock 02 February 2026 • 6 min read
Government again rejects Waspi compensation after review

Government again rejects Waspi compensation after review

DWP: Creation of compensation scheme would be ‘highly impractical’ and ‘time-consuming’

Martin Richmond
clock 29 January 2026 • 3 min read