Pension freedom inquiry reveals public distrust of financial advisers

‘Nothing short of highway robbery’

Hannah Godfrey
clock • 4 min read

Responses to the House of Commons Work and Pensions Select Committee inquiry into pension freedom have highlighted the public relations battle financial advice still faces within some sectors of the general public.

The responses in question were all submitted anonymously by individuals who have either had direct experience with an adviser or refuse to do so. Several responses highlighted the expense of transferring out of a defined benefit (DB) pension into a more flexible product. One anonymous respondent trying to transfer a DB pension said they had even met one adviser who said he was "in it to make money, frankly". Technology and Technical managing director Kim North said advising on DB transfers was risky business for advisers. "The cost of professional indemnity is high to offer DB advi...

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 Your profession

Most of our industry has forgotten what advisers actually do

Most of our industry has forgotten what advisers actually do

‘Providers have a responsibility to better support advice firms’

Mark Sanderson
clock 16 March 2026 • 3 min read
Government unveils changes to FOS operations after landmark review

Government unveils changes to FOS operations after landmark review

New ten-year limit for bringing complaints

Isabel Baxter
clock 16 March 2026 • 5 min read
Feel Good Friday: Wise Investment employee takes on the Great Wall of China for charity

Feel Good Friday: Wise Investment employee takes on the Great Wall of China for charity

Raising funds for Katherine House Hospice

Professional Adviser
clock 13 March 2026 • 1 min read