Written question asked by Nigel Waterson (Conservative) on Tuesday, 9 March 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 March 2010. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 22 March 2010 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

National Employment Savings Trust

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps her Department is taking in the procurement process for scheme administration services for the National Employment Savings Trust to ensure that the preferred solution minimises the administrative burden on businesses and simplifies the contribution mechanism for employees.

Answer: NEST will be one of the schemes employers can use to fulfil their new duties under the work place pension reforms, legislated for in the Pensions Act 2008.PADA conducted the procurement of the scheme administration services with regard to the principles set out in the Act, one of which is to minimise the burdens placed on employers. For example, producing payment schedules for employers, clearly setting out the amounts to be paid and by when. Also, ensuring that employers and workers wishing to make additional contributions can do so using a range of payment methods.This principle is reflected in the business requirements for NEST, which were developed with regard to market research with target employers and members. The winning bidder, Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., has confirmed it will fully meet these requirements.

Secondary information