§ 18. Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to review the taper formula for occupational pensions. [28158]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownWe introduced changes to the treatment of occupational pensions in incapacity benefit last April. We believe it is right to take account of pensions which duplicate the purpose of incapacity benefit, which is to provide some replacement of earnings for people of working age. The 50 per cent. taper on pension income above £85 a week encourages and rewards personal provision.
We keep all our policies under review but have no plans to introduce further changes to the present arrangements.