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

Mind the gap: Why advisers have a key role in closing the gender pension divide

Mind the gap: Why advisers have a key role in closing the gender pension divide

'While access to pensions has improved, barriers remain'

Julia Peake
clock 22 October 2026 • 5 min read
Planning points: Paying pension funds to charity on death

Planning points: Paying pension funds to charity on death

IHT on pensions may create opportunities for charitable giving

Martin Jones
clock 16 October 2026 • 3 min read
Torsten Bell: Pensions industry must 'give ground' to what savers trust

Torsten Bell: Pensions industry must 'give ground' to what savers trust

Torsten Bell says what the industry is doing is a ‘triumph’, but there must be transparency

Holly Roach
clock 15 October 2026 • 1 min read