§ Mr. Win GriffithsTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will describe the purposes of the curent review of the policy of abatement in public service pension schemes; whether it will take account of shortages in qualified manpower, including the shortages of qualified teachers identified by the Department of Education and Science; whether it will take account of the abolition of the earnings rule for national insurance pensioners; when he expects the review to be concluded; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeThe long-standing policy of abating the public service pensions of people who are re-employed in the public service is currently being reviewed to see whether it needs to be modified in the light of the wider pensions choices now available and current management needs. Particular attention is being given, among other things, to the implications of the introduction of personal pensions and the effects which the existing policy has on recruitment and retention. The abolition of the earnings rule for national insurance pensioners is not immediately relevant to the abatement of public service pensions. The Government Departments responsible for the major public service schemes, including the teachers' superannuation scheme, are contributing to the review. It is expected to be completed this summer.