Scaling back pensions minister role 'signals future danger' - Ros Altmann

Pensions policy is extremely important

Jenna Towler
clock • 5 min read

The decision to ‘downgrade' the role of pensions minister places future policy developments at risk, ex-minister Ros Altmann has warned.

Altmann quit the role of minister of state for pensions on Friday and has been replaced by Watford MP Richard Harrington. Harrington's job title is 'parliamentary under-secretary of state for pensions' which is the lowest of three tiers of government minister in the UK below minister of state and secretary of state. Harrington joined the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on 17 July having previously been under-secretary of state for Syrian refugees. Altmann (pictured) said the decision to downgrade the position "could pose threats to future pensions and we must be alert to the...

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

Preparing for 2029: Adapting to the Budget's salary sacrifice cap

Preparing for 2029: Adapting to the Budget's salary sacrifice cap

'While this policy alters the landscape, it arguably represents an adjustment rather than a fundamental reform'

Steve Charlton
clock 22 December 2025 • 3 min read
Utmost to sell life and pensions business to JAB Insurance

Utmost to sell life and pensions business to JAB Insurance

To focus on wealth solutions business

Jen Frost
clock 22 December 2025 • 2 min read
Editor's view: How disjointed is the government's salary sacrifice change?

Editor's view: How disjointed is the government's salary sacrifice change?

The editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 19 December

Jen Frost
clock 19 December 2025 • 3 min read