HC Deb 01 February 1993 vol 218 c76W
32. Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the right hon. Member for Selby, as representing the Church Commissioners if he will make a statement of the current provision made for clergy taking early retirement.

Mr. Alison

There are two forms of provision which provide an immediate pension. Voluntary retirement may take place up to five years before the minimum normal pension age of 65; pension benefits are based on actual service but reduced for early commencement. Ill health retirement may occur at any age, subject to medical evidence; pension benefits are based on actual plus prospective service.