Social Security

I am glad that the hon. Gentleman recognises the nobility of the Government’s aim and hope that he also recognises the nobility of the Government’s achievement in breaking the historic link. The question of incentives for saving lies at the heart of the Turner commission report and the national pensions debate, which is currently under way. The report and the debate give us the chance to build a consensus for an enduring pensions settlement. That is our aim and I hope that the hon. Gentleman and other Opposition Members will be part of it. Consensus is very important, because we need a pensions settlement that will stand the test of time and not be pulled apart by successive Governments. Later this month, industry groups will present their alternatives to Lord Turner’s national pensions savings scheme. On 18 March, which is national pensions day, more than 1,000 people will meet in six cities across the country to consider the choices and options in the Pensions Commission report. I look forward to welcoming Opposition Members to that programme and we will debate and scrutinise the different ways to achieve the objectives set out by the commission.