Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking to improve engagement with pension planning among individuals before they reach their 50s.

The Government ensures everyone has access to free, impartial pensions guidance through the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS). MaPS’ MoneyHelper guidance is available to individuals at any age and covers all areas of UK pensions.

For those that wish to make decisions about their pension savings, we are transforming the advice and guidance landscape through targeted support, which went live earlier this month. This will enable FCA-authorised firms to proactively suggest appropriate products or courses of action to customers of any age, using limited information about the customer and their circumstances.

MaPS is also making good progress in delivering pensions dashboards. Enabling individuals of any age to view their pensions picture securely in one place online will remove a significant barrier to engagement and support better retirement planning. Users will be signposted to further guidance and information within MoneyHelper to assist their decision making, and we are working closely with MaPS to develop this.