Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme

Debate between Grahame Morris and Claire Perry

Thursday 14th February 2019 Commons Chamber

[Claire Perry]

The hon. Lady has made a valid point but, as she has also said, if the scheme had been reviewed at that point, many more thousands of people would have received a higher pension. The decision not to conduct a review was made partly because of the volatility that is inherent in a scheme for which the Government act as guarantor, and partly because, notwithstanding the idea that this is cash that sits in the Government’s coffers, the Government have no money of their own. In many instances, the money that has come into the scheme has been spent directly in the coalfield communities. We have spent more than £1 billion —[Interruption.] Hang on. We have spent more than £1 billion of Government money in the coalfield communities over the last 20 years, and we have committed an additional £70 million since 2010. The point is that, if money comes to the Government, it is part of the Government’s general receipts and can then be recycled. That money has contributed to the benefits that many other pensioners have received.

[Grahame Morris]

Will the Minister give way?

[Claire Perry]

Let me make some progress. [Interruption.]

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Grahame Morris and Claire Perry

Tuesday 12th February 2019 Commons Chamber

[Claire Perry]

Yes, that is absolutely correct. I know that my hon. Friend takes an interest in this, so I wish to emphasise that we recognise the value of community energy, which has benefited in many cases from this scheme. If people have the chance to respond to the consultation emphasising the value of that, it would be much appreciated.

[Grahame Morris (Easington) (Lab)]

2. What steps he is taking to support people in insecure work.