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Pensions Bill - Clause 122 - Commencement
22 April 2026
Lead MP
Torsten Bell
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
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Other Contributors: 13
At a Glance
Torsten Bell raised concerns about pensions bill - clause 122 - commencement in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The lead MP moved that the House insists on its disagreement with several Lords amendments, proposes new clauses, and does not insist on certain other amendments. He aims to ensure that the cultural change in pension fund investments sticks and does not unwind.
Judith Cummins
Lab
Bradford South
The MP supported the Bill's stance on disagreeing with several Lords amendments but proposing new clauses in lieu. She emphasised pensioners' desire for secure and high returns on their savings.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham, Hodge Hill
The MP congratulated his colleague on stewarding the Bill and called for a fiduciary duty and code to give trustees clarity in investing. He questioned whether the technical working group would proceed and if further amendments would be brought forward.
The MP, while making a humorous comment about another member's hair, emphasised pensioners' desire for secure pensions and high returns on their savings. He asked for reassurance that the provisions would provide security and best returns.
Helen Whately
Con
Faversham and Mid Kent
Ms Whately argues against mandation, stating it is not a natural extension of voluntary agreements and does not solve collective action problems through market intervention. She supports improvements to regulations such as the pensions dashboard and value for money framework that promote informed choice and competition. She also criticises the Government's reserve power argument.
Judith Cummins
Lab
Bradford South
Ms Cummins announces a voting result unrelated to the debate on the Pensions Bill. There is no direct statement of her position regarding the bill's amendments.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham, Hodge Hill
Supports the amendment due to its potential benefits for pension savers and long-term economic growth. Argues that current measures are insufficient to repatriate investment saving at a necessary pace.
Helen Whately
Con
Faversham and Mid Kent
Acknowledges the need for more UK investment by pension funds but questions whether mandation is the right approach. Highlights that the Minister’s main argument is about solving a collective action problem rather than increasing UK investments.
Mark Garnier
Con
Wyre Forest
Questions why the Government voted against an amendment seeking to understand reasons for pension funds not investing in the UK. Suggests that such understanding is necessary before mandating investment.
Supports the Bill but opposes the mandate clause, viewing it as a Trojan horse. Advocates for Government shaping the market through policy rather than dictation to ensure opportunities and sensible investments without stifling risk.
Helen Whately
Con
Faversham and Mid Kent
Asked for steps to separate Division on mandation clauses from other amendments, expressing disagreement with Government's grouping of motions.
Judith Cummins
Lab
Bradford South
Responded to the point of order regarding procedure for separating Division on mandation clauses. Advised contacting Public Bill Office for further advice.
Matt Western
Lab
Warwick and Leamington
Asked for an update from the Intelligence and Security Committee on its work and findings regarding the Mandelson papers.
Judith Cummins
Lab
Bradford South
Responded that the matter is not for the Chair but for the Committee.
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