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Pensions Reform

I have noticed a distinct difference in the tone of this debate compared with previous pensions debates, in which we constantly fell into the trap of blaming each other for past mistakes. I do not want to rehearse those arguments, partly to save the blushes of the Opposition. That difference in tone leads me to believe that it is possible that consensus could come about. To my mind, that must first be established in this House, so that the arguments can be transparent and agreed in the minds of the public, because it is hardly likely that they can come to a fixed and settled view if the House cannot do so. That must be our starting point.