§ Mr. WillettsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will estimate the potential liability for compensation incurred by his Department from advice from(a) Benefits Agency offices to widows on changes to their SERPS entitlement and (b) the new hotline to advise people on Stakeholder pensions and other pension schemes. [89707]
§ Mr. TimmsExisting widows are not affected by the change in inherited SERPS. We are aware of concern about the information given in response to inquiries about the change that is due to take place from April 2000. We are considering how best to resolve this matter and will make an announcement in due course.
The "Pensions Power for You" helpline is being organised by the TUC and this Department as a partnership initiative with the CBI, the Financial Services 361W Agency and other supporting organisations and companies to provide general pensions information. Call handlers will not provide individual financial advice.