HC Deb 27 October 1997 vol 299 c567
5. Mr. Gray

What representations he has received on the effect on police pensions of the removal of the advance corporation tax credit for pension funds. [11661]

The Minister of State, Home Office (Mr. Alun Michael)

It should come as no surprise to the House that we have received no representations on the effect on police pensions of the removal of the advance corporation tax credit. The police pension scheme is not based on a pension fund: it is financed on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Mr. Gray

Is the Minister not aware that, although what he says is of course correct, he has entirely missed the fact that civilian employees in the police force will be affected by the removal of this tax? In Wiltshire alone, the removal of ACT will cost the police force an extra £80,000. That money should be spent on policing Wiltshire's streets rather than being handed to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Mr. Michael

The hon. Gentleman should read his own question before asking supplementaries. He asked specifically about the effect on police pensions. The distinction that he makes does not apply to some police pensions, especially some in the Metropolitan police.