Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme

16 May 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Lee Anderson Reform Ashfield

EconomyBenefits & WelfareLocal Government

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Lee Anderson raised concerns about mineworkers’ pension scheme in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Mr Anderson highlighted the injustice faced by former coal miners due to the mineworkers' pension scheme scandal in 1994.
  • The Minister acknowledged the hard work of coal miners and their contribution to national prosperity, citing the Coalfield Regeneration Trust's investment of over 1 billion in former coalfield areas.
  • The Government is committed to levelling up across the UK, securing significant funds for capital regeneration projects in areas like Ashfield.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Lee Anderson Reform Ashfield

Mr Anderson highlighted the injustice faced by former coal miners due to the mineworkers’ pension scheme scandal. He detailed his personal experience working in the mines, emphasising the risks and hardships endured for family sustenance. The speech underscored how a 'take it or leave it' deal in 1994 led to unfair splitting of the surplus fund between miners and the Government, resulting in billions being extracted from the scheme without any contribution back by the Treasury. Mr Anderson called for better justice and more funding for former mining communities.

Other contributors (1)
  • Stephanie Peacock Lab Barnsley East

    Ms Peacock expressed her gratitude to Lee Anderson, reiterating the importance of miners' pension justice. She highlighted the BEIS Committee report urging the Government not to profit from miners’ pensions and noted the stark disparity in current pension payouts compared to investments made.

Government Response

Justin Tomlinson

The Minister acknowledged the hard work of coal miners over decades and their contribution to national prosperity. He highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Coalfield Regeneration Trust, which has invested over £1 billion in former coalfield areas. The Government is committed to levelling up across the UK, including Ashfield, with significant funds secured for capital regeneration projects. The Minister emphasised that the mineworkers’ pension scheme remains a significant undertaking and that the trustees have managed it successfully, generating high returns and bonuses for members. He confirmed the unwavering commitment of the Government to ensure full pension entitlements are paid out under the guarantee arrangement.

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