NAPF Press Releases

NAPF reacts to Pensions Tax Relief paper

27 July 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Treasury proposals on pensions tax relief are a step in the right direction and will be less damaging to workplace pensions, the NAPF said today."

Indexation changes CPI RPI inflation

08 July 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Welcoming today’s announcement by the DWP on the indexation and revaluation of occupational pensions, Joanne Segars, NAPF Chief Executive, said: “The Government moved state and public sector schemes from RPI to CPI in the Emergency Budget, and it has acted swiftly to apply this reform to the rest of the pensions landscape."

EU Green Paper

07 July 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The NAPF welcomed the launch of the EU Green Paper on pensions today, but warned that unnecessary rules could damage UK pensions.

NAPF Supports FRC stewardship code

02 July 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) today published the first Stewardship Code for institutional investors.

Rising retirement ages inevitable

24 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) commented on announcements about the UK pension system made this morning by Iain Duncan Smith and Steve Webb.On the state retirement age, Joanne Segars, NAPF Chief Executive, said: "People are living longer and that means retirement ages will have to rise. But we cannot have workers retiring later and later on an inadequate state pension. The UK has one of the lowest in the developed world, and it is also too complicated. The trade-off for working later should be a better state pension."lt;/FONT>

Rethink on pensions tax relief welcome

22 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In today’s Budget statement the Chancellor said he would look at alternatives to restricting pensions tax relief for those earning over £150,000. Joanne Segars, NAPF Chief Executive, said: “We are pleased the Chancellor has listened to our argument for a much simpler and more radical solution. “The previous government’s proposals were a disaster in the making. They would have been very damaging to the pensions of all working people, not just the well-off."

Budget must nurture workplace pensions

18 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Government must use the Emergency Budget to help revitalize and support good workplace pensions, industry experts said today (Friday).

BP Dividend Suspended

17 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the announcement today about BP’s dividend payment, Joanne Segars, NAPF Chief Executive, said: “The ability of pension funds to pay the pensioners of today and tomorrow should not be affected."

Government Must Not Back Pedal on 2012 Pensions Reforms

16 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Government must not damage the UK’s savings culture by unpicking the package of pensions reforms due in 2012, pensions experts told the pensions minister Steve Webb today (Wednesday)

Investors Want Greater Transparency On Boardroom Pensions

15 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Companies must be more upfront with shareholders about the pension perks of their top executives, a major grouping of institutional investors said today (Tuesday)."

Oil Spill Impact on Pensions Likely to be Low

10 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the BP oil spill and its implications for pension funds, Joanne Segars, NAPF Chief Executive, said: "BP's difficulties should not have an immediate or serious impact on those saving into a pension, or on those who have retired."

BP and the Gulf oil slick crisis

02 June 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the impact of the BP crisis on Britain’s pensions funds, David Paterson, Head of Corporate Governance at NAPF said: "Our understanding is that BP made up about 6% of the FTSE-100 index before the recent falls."

NAPF thumbs up for Government pensions commitments

20 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Coalition Government plans for pensions reform were today given a broad thumbs up by the NAPF, which represents Britain’s workplace pensions funds and their 15 million members.

NAPF urges fair play on public sector pensions reform

18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Speaking to 300 Local Authority Pension Fund managers, the NAPF today backed the Government’s decision to set up an independent Public Sector Pensions Commission, but said it must ensure fair play.

NAPF Responds to Government pensions commitments

13 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Joanne Segars, Chief Executive of the NAPF, said: “Now the talk and hype of the Election is finally over and a new Government is in place, no time must be lost in knuckling down and focusing on what is a critical challenge for the UK: tackling the pensions crisis and creating the right conditions for pensions – and pensioners – to prosper.

Four Become Quality Friends

12 April 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Standard Life, BlackRock, Ferrier Pearce and Capita Hartshead are the first four companies to become Friends of Pension Quality Mark because of their commitment to support the award for good quality workplace pensions.

Pensions Fit for the Future

29 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Two million pensioners will be lifted out of means-tested benefits through a new simpler state pension system and workers will have the opportunity to retire on two-thirds average earnings, thanks to new plans from the National Association of Pension Funds.

Lindsay Tomlinson Speech to ICGN Conference 25th March 2010

26 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Lindsay Tomlinson Speech to ICGN Conference 25th March 2010

Be a Friend of Pension Quality Mark

25 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

On the day that four more schemes were awarded the Pension Quality Mark, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has launched a new initiative to recognise the advisers and providers who are helping to make the award such a success.

Budget Glass Half Full and Glass Half Empty for Workplace Pensions

24 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on todays Budget, National Association of Pension Funds Chief Executive Joanne Segars said:

The Long Weekend. New film from the NAPF to encourage pension saving

12 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The NAPF has unveiled a new film to help employees understand how important it is to save for their future, and how their company pension scheme can be part of that.

Wealth More Important Than Health For Happy Retirement

12 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Almost three-quarters (71%) of employees say that being financially secure would make them happy in retirement according to new research from the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) launched today

Pension Scheme Asset Pooling Now Made Simple for Trustees

11 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Pension funds looking to achieve a better return on their investments by pooling their assets with other investors now have an easy to understand guide thanks to the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Asset Pooling Made Simple, published today.

Summit to Shape Direction of Pension Accounting

11 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Finding a better method of valuing pensions on company balance sheets and ensuring the survival of defined benefit provision will be on the agenda at an Accounting Summit to be held by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) in the coming months. The Summit starts a major NAPF review into the standards used for accounting for pensions.

Award for Quality Pensions Hits the Heights

10 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Pension Quality Mark continues to go from strength to strength as three new pension schemes received the Pension Quality Mark awards which recognises the good quality pension schemes they run for their staff.

Ray Martin Investment Conference Speech 2010

10 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Ray Martin Investment Conference Speech 2010

Six Steps to Save Workplace Pensions

10 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In his inaugural address to the National Association of Pension Funds Investment Conference as Investment Council Chairman, Ray Martin has set out the six steps politicians must take to fix the UK’s pension system.

Only One in Three Confident in Pension Income

08 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Only a third of working people believe that their pension will give them enough money in retirement according to new research from the National Association of Pension Funds.

Stop, Look, Listen - Government Must Rethink Pensions Tax Plans

03 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Government must stop its plans to change pensions taxation for high earners, look carefully at the threat they pose to wider pension provision, and listen to the pensions sectors alternative approach. This is the message given in the NAPFs response to a Government consultation today.

100,000 Workers Have Schemes That Hit The Pension Quality Mark

02 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Just six months after its launch, over 100,000 people are now saving in pension schemes that have the Pension Quality Mark. They now have a simple way to see that the pension scheme they are offered at work is a good one.

David Willetts MP to speak about baby boomers and beyond

01 March 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Thinker, author and politician, David Willetts MP, will speak at the NAPF Investment Conference in Edinburgh next week about the economic, political and cultural impact of the baby boomer generation on those under the age of 45.

Lindsay Tomlinson Speech at NAPF Chairman’s Dinner 2010

25 February 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Lindsay Tomlinson Speech at NAPF Chairman’s Dinner 2010

Chancellor Must Adopt a Budget for Pensions

25 February 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Government must support good quality pensions by increasing the supply of long-dated and index-linked gilts and abandoning their complex and costly proposals on the tax treatment of pensions contributions. Instead, the Government should adopt the NAPFs alternative approach. This message was delivered1 this week by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) to the Chancellor of the Exchequer ahead of next months Budget.

New Global Investment Performance Standards Unveiled

17 February 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A new version of the standards which harmonise the way in which the investment performance of fund managers is presented has been launched today by CFA Institute in tandem with UK Investment Performance Committee (UKIPC).

After the storm? Pension experts gather to chart the investment course ahead

09 February 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Almost a 1,000 pension experts will gather in Edinburgh next month to grapple with the challenges thrown up by the recession for pension investing. Together they are responsible for managing the pension investments of over 15 million people who are saving for retirement through a workplace pension.

Joanne Segars Speech at NAPF Corporate Governance Seminar 9 February 2010

09 February 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The financial crisis, already in full swing last February, worsened to become the worst in 90 years. Government applied some strong medicine to fix the broken economy, not least Quantitative Easing, which had some harsh consequences for pension funds.

Putting a Stronger Corporate Governance Culture into Practice

09 February 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Two new initiatives designed to support the ownership role of pension funds and continue to support raising corporate governance standards in the UK will be launched today by the National Association of Pension Funds.

Government Figures Show Workplace Pensions Improve Quality Of Life In Retirement

27 January 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the Governments latest pensions statistics (published today) on inequalities and poverty in retirement, National Association of Pension Funds Chief Executive Joanne Segars said

NAPF Response to Government Announcement on Workplace Pension Reforms

12 January 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on todays publication of the Governments regulations on their workplace pension reforms, Joanne Segars, National Association of Pension Funds Chief Executive, said

NAPF Helps Trustees Get Connected

10 December 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Trustee PensionsConnection Launched Today

PBR is another pensions tax grab

09 December 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NAPF comments on Pre-Budget Report.

Darling Must Not Dodge Golden Opportunity To Help Millions of Pension Savers

04 December 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Government can help millions of people saving for retirement by ensuring more of the borrowing it needs to balance its books also meets the long-term needs of pension schemes, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has told the Chancellor of the Exchequer ahead of next weeks Pre-Budget Report.

Strengthening Board Responsibility Key To Building Better Governance

01 December 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the publication today of the Financial Reporting Councils consultation on proposed reforms to the UK Corporate Governance Code (formerly the Combined Code), David Paterson, National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Head of Corporate Governance, said:

NAPF Annual Survey 2009 - Government Action Needed As Recession Impacts Pensions

27 November 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The recession has continued to take its toll on private sector defined benefit (DB) pension schemes. New figures from the National Association of Pension Funds’ Annual Survey released today show that 23% of schemes remain open to new members, compared to 28% a year ago.

Walker Review - Better Balance Between Banks and Institutional Investors

26 November 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the publication today of Sir David Walker’s review of corporate governance in UK banks and other financial industry entities, David Paterson, National Association of Pension Funds’ (NAPF) Head of Corporate Governance, said:.

Executive Pay Restraint and Alignment with Long-Term Interests of Pension Funds Needed

13 November 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has written to the Chairmen of Britains top 350 companies urging executive pay restraint and making it clear that company remuneration should be aligned with the longterm interests of shareholders, including pension funds.

Pension Reforms Require Further Injection of Common Sense

09 November 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The latest batch of draft regulations on the Governments 2012 pension reforms1 requires a dose of common sense if the rules are to work in the real world, the National Association of Pension Funds(NAPF) has told the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

NAPF Annual Conference Chairman's Speech - Linsdsay Tomlinson

16 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NAPF Annual Conference Chairman's Speech - Lindsay Tomlinson

Guides to help people running pension schemes published

16 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two new guides to improve the operation of pension schemes are published today by the NAPF at its Annual Conference.

NAPF Calls on Government to Make it Easier for Employers to Talk About Pensions

15 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Government must review the law to make it easier for employers to talk about pensions. This should include consideration of giving employers a legal indemnity.

Volkswagen and RNLI Latest to Receive Pension Quality Mark

14 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Volkswagen Group UK and The Royal National Lifeboat Institution are among the latest wave of companies to be awarded the NAPFs prestigious new Pension Quality Mark.

NAPF DC Research Suggests Future of Default Funds

14 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new report by the NAPF published today describes current practice in default investment funds for DC pensions and sets out how experts believe they should develop in the future. The report, DC Default Funds: Today and Tomorrow, was produced by the NAPF in collaboration with PensionDCisions.

Employee Confidence in Pensions Returns

14 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Employee confidence in pensions has strongly improved since the end of last year, when the economy went into recession, reveals the National Association of Pension Funds latest Workplace Pensions Survey at the start of its Annual Conference.

NAPF Welcomes Conservative State Pension Age Review.

06 October 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the Conservative Party’s announcement at their conference to hold a review of the UK’s state pension age, National Association of Pension Funds’ Chief Executive, Joanne Segars, said:.

New Pension Levy Announcement Helpful in Difficult Times Says NAPF

30 September 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The decision to keep the overall levy at the same level and to reduce the cap per scheme levy has been welcomed by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) as a helpful measure.

Concessions Welcome But Auto-Enrolment Rules Must Be Right Not Rushed

24 September 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today welcomed the Governments significant concessions on the draft regulations for employers to auto-enrol employees into a pension scheme from 2012.

Marks and Spencer and Kelloggs among first to receive PQM

21 September 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marks and Spencer plc and Kelloggs are among the first seven companies to be awarded the prestigious new Pension Quality Mark, launched today by the NAPF

NAPF Council Membership 2009-10 - Election Results

17 September 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following this years National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) council elections, the following people have been elected to serve on the Associations main policy-making bodies, Investment Council or Retirement Policy Council:-

NAPF Response To Lord Myners' Call For Differential Shareholder Voting Rights

03 August 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on City Minister Lords Myners call for differential voting rights for shareholders depending on the length of time they have held shares, Lindsay Tomlinson, Chairman of the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Shareholder Affairs Committee, said:

Support For PPF Move To Involve Pensions Sector On the Future Of The Levy

30 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the publication today of the Pension Protection Fund’s (PPF) update on the future of their levy, Joanne Segars, Chief Executive of the National Association of Pension Funds, said: “We are pleased the PPF has listened to the NAPF and are now reviewing their plans for the levy.

NAPF Supports Way Forward On The Combined Code

28 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the publication today of the Financial Reporting Council’s (FRC) progress review of the effectiveness of the Combined Code on Corporate Governance, David Paterson, National Association of Pension Funds’ (NAPF) Head of Corporate Governance, said: “The NAPF welcomes this progress report from the FRC and will be consulting with its members on a detailed response in the coming weeks.

NAPF Announces Keynote Speakers at Annual Conference 2009

17 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Yvette Cooper, will headline a first class list of speakers at the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Annual Conference and Exhibition 2009 - ‘Fit for the Future.’

Walker Recommendations Strike 'Better Balance' Between Companies and Investors

16 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the publication today of Sir David Walker’s review into Corporate Governance in UK banks and other financial industry entities, David Paterson, National Association of Pension Funds’ (NAPF) Head of Corporate Governance, said: “Taken as a whole, we welcome the recommendations laid out in the consultation as they strike a better balance than is presently the case between the governance needs of financial institutions and their owners.

NAPF Elects Council Chairmen

15 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ray Martin and Joy Moore have been elected as the Chairmen of the National Association of Pension Fund’s (NAPF) two main policy making councils.

Pensions Relief Changes Remain Totally At Odds With Incentives To Save

09 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Government’s changes to tax relief on pension contributions remain “totally at odds with incentives to save”, the Chief Executive of the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) said today.

NAPF Comments on Treasury Plans to Change Pensions Tax Relief Anti-Forestalling Rules

03 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on today’s announcement of Treasury plans to change pensions tax relief anti-forestalling rules, Nigel Peaple, NAPF Director of Policy said: “We are pleased that the Government has addressed some of our concerns regarding the “anti-forestalling” regime. Adopting a more flexible approach to existing contribution agreements and to “irregular” contributions will make a real difference to some companies and individuals. However, the NAPF remains deeply concerned about the Government’s plans to change tax relief for pensions. We need Ministers to listen on this too.”

UKIPC Broadly Welcomes Proposals For GIPS 2010 But Has Concerns About Risk Disclosure and Valuation Standards

02 July 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In its response to the consultation on the Exposure Draft of the 2010 Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS)2 the UK Investment Performance Committee (UKIPC)3 has welcomed the updating and partial re-writing of the Standard which will maintain the relevance and validity of the standard in today’s rapidly evolving financial market place. However, the UKIPC is concerned about the inclusion of new valuation and accounting standards and has expressed disappointment about the limited impact of the new risk standard.

Pension Schemes Plan to Spend More Time on Engagement

29 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Key findings from the National Association of Pension Funds 2009 engagement survey show that nearly half (49%) of pension schemes will spend more time scrutinising the actions of their fund managers on engagement issues as a result of the economic crisis.

NAPF Comments on House of Lords Report into Pension Tax Relief Changes

23 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the House of Lords Sub-Committee on the Finance Bill report published today, Nigel Peaple, NAPF Policy Director, said: “We are pleased that the House of Lords sub-committee has accepted the arguments we put to them about the damaging impact the Budget proposals will have on pensions saving. We hope the report will persuade the Government to rethink its proposals.”

Freeze on PPF Levy Welcome But Government Should Introduce Ceiling For Long Term

23 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has welcomed the announcement today by Alan Rubenstein, Chief Executive of the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) that the 2010/11 PPF levy will remain around £700 million.

Lindsay Tomlinson Elected as New NAPF Chairman

16 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lindsay Tomlinson has been elected as the new Chairman of the National Association of Pension Funds. He will take over from Chris Hitchen whose two-year term of office ends at the NAPF Annual General Meeting on 16 October 2009.

NAPF Call for MPs to Think Again on Pension Tax Relief

15 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ahead of a debate in Parliament this week, the National Association Pension Funds (NAPF) has written to a number of MPs to urge them to rethink changes announced in the Budget on pensions taxation, saying the changes will have a negative impact on pension saving.

Building Knowledge and Confidence is Key to Improving Pension Saving

12 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Findings from the fourth National Association of Pension Funds’ (NAPF) Workplace Pensions Survey1,2 show that tackling a lack of knowledge and confidence amongst those who choose not to join a company pension scheme when one is available could create a step change in improving the country’s pension saving.

NAPF Response to DWP Consultation on 2012 Auto-Enrolment Rules

10 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has criticised proposed rules for auto-enrolment as “inflexible, bureaucratic and costly to both implement and run” in its response1 to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) consultation2 on the rules of how auto-enrolment will work after its introduction in 2012.

NAPF Publishes Contributions to Financial Reporting Council and Walker Review

5 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds has today published its responses to the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) call for evidence in reviewing the effectiveness of the Combined Code as well as its contribution to the Walker Review4 of Corporate Governance of the UK’s Banking System (see Annex 1 and 2 for summaries). Both reviews are in response to corporate governance issues raised by the financial crisis.

Reaction To This Week's Final Salary Pensions Scheme Announcements

4 June 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Joanne Segars, National Association of Pension Funds’ (NAPF) Chief Executive, speaking today at the Actuarial Profession’s Annual conference in Leeds said: “A number of employers have recently announced their decision to close their final salary schemes either to new or existing members. This continues a trend seen over the last five years and more.

NAPF Endorses FSA Reforms on Remuneration Practices for Large Banks and Broker Dealers

20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In response1 to the Financial Services Authoritys (FSA) consultation on remuneration practices, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has endorsed the introduction of the FSA Remuneration Code into the FSA Handbook for large banks and broker dealers.

NAPF Comments Ahead of Giving Evidence To House of Lords SUb-Committee on Pensions Tax Relief

20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ahead of her giving evidence1 (Wednesday 20th May) before the House of Lords Economic Affairs Sub-Committee, who are considering aspects of the Finance Bill including restricting pensions tax relief, Joanne Segars, Chief Executive of the National Association of Pension Funds, said:

NAPF Launches New Service For Local Authority Pension Specialists

19 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today launched LA PensionsConnection, a new service designed to provide information and support to those involved in local government pensions.

NAPF Budget 2009 Response

22 April 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In response to today’s Budget, the National Association of Pensions Funds’ Chief Executive, Joanne Segars, said:

NAPF Comments on AON Proposals to Change Pension Arrangements

08 April 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting Aon proposals outlined in today’s media, NAPF Chief Executive Joanne Segars said...

Investment Conference 2009 - Video Footage Now Available

03 April 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Video footage of seven key sessions at the National Association of Pension Funds Investment Conference (Edinburgh: 11th-13th March 2009) is now available

NAPF Finds Pension Funds Remain Satisfied with Investment Consultants

13 March 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The latest Assessing Investment Consultants Performance survey1 from the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has found that a large majority of pension schemes, 83% of defined benefit (DB) schemes and 80% of defined contribution (DC) schemes, would recommend their investment consultancy to another scheme with similar needs.

NAPF Supports Liberal Democrat call for Government Guarantee for Pension Protection Fund

12 March 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today welcomed the call by Dr Vincent Cable, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader and Shadow Chancellor, for the Government to be the ultimate guarantor of the Pension Protection Fund (PPF).

NAPF Updates Responsible Investment Guidance

12 March 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As part of its work in the field of Corporate Governance, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today issued new guidance on Responsible Investment.

NAPF Publishes Hedge Funds Made Simple

12 March 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has published its latest Made Simple Guide – Hedge Funds Made Simple.

NAPF Announces Keynote Speakers at Regulation Rendezvous

04 March 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lord McKenize of Luton, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will headline a host on industry speakers at the latest NAPF Regulation Rendezvous. Lord McKenzie will look at the ongoing review of deregulation and at pension aspects of the economic recession.

NAPF Announces Speakers for Local Authority Conference

23 February 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Local Government Minister, Rt Hon John Healey MP, will outline the Governments future thoughts for Local Government, as the keynote speaker at this years National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Local Authority Pensions Conference.

NAPF Proposes PPF Levy Reforms in Response to Levy Consultation

17 February 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has laid out plans to reform the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) levy in its response1 to the recent PPF consultation on the future development of the annual levy charged to defined benefit (DB) pension schemes.

NAPF Updates Corporate Governance and Voting Guidelines

13 February 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has updated its Corporate Governance Policy and Voting Guidelines1 ahead of the 2009 AGM season. Amendments to the Policy include combined Chairman/Chief Executive Officer guidelines, the role of the Chairman in maintaining corporate governance standards and waivers of Rule 9 of the Takeover Code.

Response To Government Report On Financial Incentives To Save For Retirement

05 February 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Responding to the Department of Work and Pensions report1 “Saving for Retirement: Implications of pensions reform on financial incentives to save for retirement”, National Association of Pensions Funds Chief Executive, Joanne Segars, said:

NAPF Calls for Debt Management Office Plans on Using A Range Of Gilt Issuance Mechanisms

04 February 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has backed the Governments medium term strategy to issue more long-dated, indexed-linked gilts and has called for a range of distribution methods to be available to help meet pension funds needs.

NAPF Supports Government Consultation On Strengthening Shareholders' Rights

30 January 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In its response1 to The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) consultation on the implementation of the European Commissions Shareholders Rights Directive, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has given its broad support to proposals which will aid institutional investors on issues such as voting and the obligations of proxies.

Further EU Regulation Would Be Premature

15 December 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A European Union (EU) consultation on the possibility of further harmonisation regulation for occupational pension schemes (Institutions for Occupational Retirement Provision - IORPs), has been labelled as premature by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) in its response to the EU proposals to amend the IORP Directive.

NAPF Comments On Regulator's Scheme Funding Analysis

11 December 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the Pensions Regulator’s analysis on scheme funding, Joanne Segars, National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Chief Executive, said: The Pensions Regulator’s latest guidance is a step in the right direction. They have made it clear now that the economic climate may justify longer recovery plans

Government Misses Opportunity on Pension Risk Sharing

11 December 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the Governments response to its consultation on pension risk sharing, Joanne Segars, National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Chief Executive, said: It is hugely disappointing that the Government has not done more to promote risk sharing. A clear opportunity to ease the pressure on employers who support defined benefit pension schemes has been missed.

Investment Conference 2009 speaker announcement

12 December 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Anthony Bolton, President of Investment at Fidelity International and Hector Sants, Chief Executive of the Financial Services Authority (FSA) head a line up of top speakers at the National Association of Pensions Funds (NAPF) Investment Conference 2009.

Pre-Budget Report - New Gilt Sales Are A Missed Opportunity To Help Pension Funds

25 November 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In response to the Pre-Budget Report announcement of an increase in planned gilt sales of £66.4 billion, Chris Hitchen, National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Chairman, said:

NAPF Calls For Government To Issue More Long-Dated Debt

21 November 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ahead of the Pre-Budget Report (24th November 2008), the National Association of Pensions Funds (NAPF) has called for the Government to issue more long-dated Government debt, both fixed and indexed-linked.

NAPF Comments on PPF Consultation on Long-Term Future of the Levy

18 November 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Responding to the announcement by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) on its consultation on the long-term future of the levy, Joanne Segars, NAPF Chief Executive, said:

NAPF Welcomes Government Consultation on Section 75

12 November 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Commenting on the Governments announcement that it will consult on Section 75 regulations, National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Chief Executive, Joanne Segars said:

Pension Funds Continue to Diversify Asset Investments

11 November 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The latest Annual Survey from the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has shown that pension funds are continuing to move their assets out of equities and into other investment classes. The survey received responses from 294 defined benefit funds with £450 billion in assets.

NAPF Responds to Government Proposals on Self-Certification

07 November 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Responding to yesterdays announcement (see notes to editors) by Pensions Minister Rosie Winterton MP, the National Association of Pension Funds Chief Executive, Joanne Segars, said:

NAPF Announces Keynote Speakers at Trustee Conference

28 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The new Minister for Pensions Reform, Rosie Winterton MP, will headline a programme of industry speakers at the latest NAPF Trustee Conference in November.

Footage of NAPF Annual Conference Available Now

22 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Video footage of nine key sessions at the National Association of Pension Funds Annual Conference and Exhibition 2008 (Glasgow: 8th-10th October 2008) is now available online.

NAPF Launches Best Practice Principles for Investment Advice

14 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today launched the final version of its Best Practice Principles on investment advice to pension funds (annex 1). These have been endorsed by 12 major consultancies.

Barclays UK Retirement Fund Wins NAPF Investment Competition

13 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Barclays UK Retirement Fund has been named as the winner of the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Investment Competition 20081, sponsored by Henderson Global Investors.

Report Highlights Four Key Issues For UK Pensions Regulation

10 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An independent report written for the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has found four areas where UK pensions regulation is out of step with international practice.

NAPF Announces the Launch of the Pension Quality Mark

08 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today announced that it will start awarding a Pension Quality Mark from 2009 for any employer offering defined contribution (DC) pensions that meet three core tests.

Annual Pensions Survey 2008 Stability Now But Further Change on Horizon

08 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 34th National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Annual Survey1 has revealed a picture of continuity and change in UK workplace pension provision in 2008. The comprehensive survey covering 502 pension schemes with over £460 billion in assets has been launched this morning at the NAPF’s Annual Conference in Glasgow.

Proposals for Pensions Accounting Are Premature

01 October 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPF Responds to International Accounting Standards Board on Pensions Accounting

Major Pension Funds Increase Class Action Participation

18 September 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Engagement Survey 2008 of funds with over £1 billion in assets, has found that growing numbers are becoming involved in class actions.

Large Funds Increase Engagement and Impact

12 September 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Engagement Survey 2008 shows that large UK pension funds (with over £1 billion in assets) are increasing their influence on the companies they invest in.

UK Companies Feel Duty To Help Employees Prepare For Retirement

10 September 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A survey of over 300 HR Managers1 by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has found that pensions continue to be an integral and important part of many company remuneration packages.

NAPF Calls For Greater Flexibility On Risk Sharing Pensions

05 September 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPF Responds to Government’s Consultation on Risk Sharing

NAPF Launches Specialist Service for HR Professionals

28 August 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today launched HR PensionsConnection, a new specialist service aimed at providing information and support to HR professionals involved in their organisations workplace pension. Pension issues ranging from the impact of Personal Accounts and auto-enrolment, remuneration policy, recruitment strategies and regulations will be covered.

New PENSIONSFORCE Website Launched

26 August 2008 00:00:00 GMT

PENSIONSFORCE, the free-of-charge workplace education service designed to help employers help their employees plan for retirement has launched a new website, www.pensionsforce.co.uk.

NAPF Launches Specialist Service For Financial Professionals

06 August 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The NAPF has today launched FD PensionsConnection, a new specialist service aimed at providing information and support to financial professionals involved in their organisation’s workplace pension. Pension issues ranging from deficits, rising liabilities, buyouts, conflicts of interest and the impact of pensions on corporate activity will be covered.

NAPF Welcomes Regulator's Decision To Delay Changes On Mortality Assumptions

22 July 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has welcomed the Pensions Regulators (tPR) announcement that September 2008, not March 2007, will now be the date from which it expects pension scheme valuations to show greater recognition of longevity improvements.

Accounting Proposals Could Lead To Further Erosion of UK Defined Benefit Pensions

14 July 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In its response to the Accounting Standards Boards (ASB) proposals in their Financial Reporting of Pensions discussion paper, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today warned that the plans are likely to further weaken and erode UK defined benefit (DB) pension schemes.

NAPF Responds To Myners Consultation

03 July 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In publishing its response today to HM Treasury's proposals and consultation on the 2007 Myners Review conducted by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF), the Association broadly welcomes the proposals but has called for energy and focus now to be spent on implementation.

Poor Pensions Understanding Offers Opportunity

24 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The latest findings from the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Workplace Pensions Survey show that more work must be done with employees to build their understanding of the benefits of workplace pensions.

Private Equity Made Simple - NAPF Launch New Guide

20 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today launched Private Equity Made Simple, a new title in its series of guides aimed at making pensions investment easier to understand. The guide has been sponsored by SVG Capital plc.

Ten Weeks Left To Enter NAPF Investment Competition

16 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The chance to win £7,500 toward trustee training costs in the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Investment Competition 2008 closes in ten weeks (29th August 2008).

Pensions Bill Must Revise Definition of Qualifying Earnings

16 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

According to the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) and other industry bodies (see notes to editors), the Government risks undermining both retirement savings for lower earners and leaving each pension scheme with a £25,000 - £100,000 bill if they do not revise the definition of Qualifying Earnings (“pensionable pay”) in the current Pensions Bill. This issue is due to be debated in the House of Lords on Tuesday 17th June.

NAPF Announces Keynote Speakers at Annual Conference 2008

16 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rt. Hon James Purnell MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and Professor Lord Robert Winston, academic, medical expert and broadcaster, will headline a first class list of speakers at the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Annual Conference and Exhibition 2008 - ‘Better knowledge for better pensions.’ Other key speakers include;

PENSIONSFORCE Seeks New Workforces To Speak To

12 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pensions Funds (NAPF) PENSIONSFORCE service, aimed at providing generic information to employees about saving for retirement, has written to over 1,000 pension funds and HR managers encouraging them to take-up the free service for their workforce.

NAPF Welcomes Government Announcement On Pension Risk Sharing

06 June 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In response to the Government announcement on the risk sharing of occupational pension provision, National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Policy Director, Nigel Peaple, said:

NAPF Welcomes Lord Adair Turner's Appointment

30 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In response to Lord Adair Turners appointment as Chairman of the Financial Services Authority, Nigel Peaple, NAPF Director of Policy, said:

T-Charter Eendorsed by NAPF

27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In recognition of the importance of achieving high standards in the transition management industry, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today announced its endorsement of the T-Charter.

NAPF Endorses EFRP Report And Calls On MEPs Not To Undermine Workplace Pensions

23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The European Federation for Retirement Provisions (EFRP) report - IORP Directive - securing workplace pensions, published today, outlines the important role that workplace pension schemes play in dealing with Europes ageing population. The National Association of Pensions Funds (NAPF), as the UK member of the EFRP, endorses thereport and calls on MEPs not to propose extending the Solvency II proposal to company pension funds (IORPs - Institutions for Occupational Retirement Provision).

NAPF Welcomes EU Decision On Personal Accounts

16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pensions Funds (NAPF) has welcomed the decision by the European Union (EU) to allow employers to automatically enrol their staff into Personal Accounts when this new pension scheme is introduced in 2012.

Regulator's Proposed Approach Will Place Unnecessary Pressure On Pension Schemes

16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In its response to The Pensions Regulators (TPR) consultation on choosing assumptions for defined benefit schemes (DB) especially regarding mortality, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has raised a number of key concerns. The pensions body argues that, while TPR guidance to trustees is welcome, using long cohort mortality projections as a "trigger" for further TPR review will place unnecessary pressure on DB pension schemes.

Pension Fund And Industry Body To Bring Joint Legal Challenge

12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Wheels Common Investment Fund (WCIF)1 and the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) have agreed that they will jointly bring a legal challenge against HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) on the application of VAT on the investment management services supplied to occupational pension funds. WCIF is an £8 billion multi-employer scheme covering Ford Motor Company Limited, Jaguar Cars Limited and Land Rover.

NAPF Welcomes Consultation and Clarification on the Pensions Regulator's Powers

25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following the publication of the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) consultation on The Pension Regulators powers, The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Chief Executive, Joanne Segars said:

2008 Buyout Seminar - NAPF Comments

23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following the successful National Association of Pension Funds Buyout seminar today (23rd April), Chief Executive, Joanne Segars said:

NAPF Announces 2008-09 Council Membership

10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After this years National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) council elections, the following leading pension experts have been elected to serve on either the Benefits Council or Investment Council for four year terms:

Investment Conference 2008 (Video Footage Now Available)

8 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Video footage of four key sessions at the National Association of Pension Funds Conference 2008 (Edinburgh : 3rd- 5th March 2008) is now available online

NAPF Welcomes HM Treasury Update On Myners Principles

31 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today welcomed the launch of the HM Treasury consultation on updating the Myners Principles. This followed the NAPFs year-long consultation with the pensions industry, trustees and other stakeholders which resulted in a comprehensive progress review with recommendations published by the NAPF in November 2007

Stock Market Falls - NAPF Comments On Pension Funds Impact

17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has reiterated today that pension funds are long-term investors and stock market volatility will not have an enduring effect on workplace pensions.

NAPF Welcomes Re-Think On Small Pensions

12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) welcomes the announcement concerning trivial commutation made in todays Budget. The new measures mean a partial reversion to the pre-2006 position for occupational pension schemes whereby a one-off cash sum can be paid as an alternative to a regular pension without having to obtain details of pension entitlements held elsewhere.

NAPF Calls For Caution - Response To IMA Proposals To End Compulsory Annuitisation

11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In response to todays announcement by the Investment Management Association (IMA) on ending compulsory annuitisation, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) believes the proposals should be treated with caution.

NAPF Launches Independent Pension Trustee Toolkit Assessing Investment Consultancies

6 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As part of its core aim to raise standards within the UK pensions industry, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today launched an independent toolkit to help trustees assess the performance of investment consultancies.

Investing In Commercial Property Made Simple - NAPF Launch New Guide

6 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The first title in 2008 from the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Made Simple series has been launched today at the Associations Investment Conference in Edinburgh.

NAPF Launches Investment Competition 2008

5 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As part of its aim to identify and share best practice, The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has today launched Investment Competition 2008.

Thoresen Review - The Inclusion Of The Workplace Welcomed

3 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In response to todays publication of the Thoresen Review, the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) welcomes the recommendation of a Money Guidance service including the emphasis placed on the workplace as an avenue for delivering generic financial advice. The NAPF, through its PENSIONSFORCE service, has found that face to face group meetings are the most preferred method for receiving information about retirement planning.

Workplace Pensions Valued But More To Be Done On Confidence)

3 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A new National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Workplace Pensions Survey has revealed that a workplace pension is the most important company benefit an employer can offer.

Executive Contracts and Severance (Joint ABI and NAPF Statement)

22 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has welcomed the announcement (21 February 2008) by the Government that it will be consulting on the issue of conditional indexation and risk sharing in June 2008. However, it urges the Government to include legislation in the current Pensions Bill to enable the quick introduction of any changes resulting from the consultation.

Risk Sharing Consultation Welcomed But Swift Action Needed

22 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPF Comments On The Pensions Regulator's Mortality Consultation

18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In response to The Pensions Regulators announcement today on its mortality consultation, The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) Chief Executive, Joanne Segars, said: We want to see schemes properly funded and it is right that improvements in life expectancy should be recognised. Many schemes have already taken account of longevity improvements in their funding assumptions.

NAPF Announces Keynote Speakers at Investment Conference

1 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lord Eddie George, former Governor of the Bank of England and P.J.ORourke, leading political satirist and best-selling author will headline a first class list of speakers at the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) 2008 Investment Conference.