---

Pensions Bill

From the very beginning there has been concern on all sides about the interaction of the scheme with the benefits system. Therefore, I support the intentions behind the amendment but, on the other hand, it does not meet the objectives which I think the noble Lord, Lord Skelmersdale, had in mind in introducing it. In particular, I share the views expressed about proposed new subsection (2) of the amendment. I do not see why the implementation of the scheme under Clause 58 should be postponed for at least 12 months, as the subsection says, while consideration is given to the projected figure of 10 per cent referred to in the amendment. That seems a rather unusual figure to quote. In those circumstances, although I am sure that the Committee is concerned to ensure that interaction with the benefits system should be ironed out somehow or another—indeed, we know that the Government have that under continuing review—I cannot support the current wording of the amendment.