§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
What representations they have received from trade unions about their concerns with regard to the Pensions Bill; what replies they have sent; and whether there is any action they are considering in response to those concerns. [HL2406]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Baroness Hollis of Heigham)This Government are committed to increasing consensus on pension issues by maintaining frequent contact with all key partners in both the trade unions and the employer community. This contact is important as it is for all of us to help to increase confidence and security in pension provision.
60WAWe have received representations from various trade unions on the content of the Pensions Bill and continue to welcome their input to this important debate. We have taken on board the views of stakeholders during consultation and continue to involve them in discussions regarding their concerns. Indeed many of the measures in the Pensions Bill, such as the Pension Protection Fund, and the extension of TUPE-style protection for the occupational pensions of workers who are transferred to a new employer, reflect long-standing trade union concerns.
Over the past few months, my DWP colleagues and I have variously met representatives from the TUC and from many individual trade union organisations where we have discussed a range of topics including the Pensions Bill. In addition, government officials discuss aspects of the Pensions Bill through regular contacts and meetings with both TUC and CBI representatives.
My right honourable friend Secretary of State for Work and Pensions met Brendan Barber on 20 April and had a constructive discussion on aspects of the Pensions Bill.