§ 31. Mr. J. Howardasked the Minister of Health if he will amend the Regulations to enable those dental practitioners who exercised their option under Regulation 46 (3) (m) to join the superannuation scheme if they so desire.
§ Mr. HowardIn view of the change which is foreshadowed by the Finance Bill in the pension rights of self-employed people, will my hon. Friend reconsider the position of those dentists 700 who have opted out of the scheme in order that they may avail themselves of tax advantages which are open to other members of their profession?
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithI think my hon. Friend will appreciate that this would not apply merely to dentists but to people of all professions, and no superannuation scheme can be run on a sound actuarial basis unless there is some finality about options. It was at the direct request of the profession that certain members were allowed to opt out. That was eight years ago, and I think it is unreasonable to suggest that we should now reverse the policy and allow them to have their cake and eat it.