People in Rochdale urged to have say on pension system

Date published: 14/03/2006

People in Rochdale are urged to have their say online on the future of the pension system and help to shape Government reform.

As part of a national debate, the Government is listening to people's views on the future of pensions to help build as broad a consensus as possible in developing a long-term solution to meet the pensions challenge.

By visiting the National Pensions Debate website, people can join in the Debate and give their views on the broad proposals put forward by the Pensions Commission. These include raising the state pension age and auto enrolment into a National Pension Savings Scheme.

Pensions Reform Minister, Stephen Timms, today urged people to make their views heard. He said:

"Retirement may be a long way off for many but we need to raise awareness around pensions and help people to understand the difficult choices and trade offs involved.

"We know from the Pensions Commission that about 10 million people are not saving enough towards retirement. The Commission was clear that while there is not a crisis today, we need to take action to ensure a fair and adequate retirement income for all in the future.

"That is why it is so important we all join in the debate, and help build a national consensus about the right way forward.

"The Government can't do this alone. In order to deliver a lasting pensions settlement, everyone's views must count."

The website also features video clips of the Pensions Commission Chair, Adair Turner, setting out the Commission's proposals. Members of the public are also taking part in a series of consultation events across the country, as part of the National Pensions Debate.

Visit www.dwp.gov.uk/debate and give your views on the broad proposals put forward by the Pensions Commission.