Posted by Roger Burtenshaw on 16 October 2000 at 10:55:37:
I have had the following response from my MP, David Willets.
Thank you for your letter of 21 September about the IBM pension fund. I understand your frustration with the transfer of funds from the defined benefit scheme to a defined contribution one for current workers. Pensioners with an occupational pension scheme have a right to expect fair treatment and a decent income they should not feel they are losing out to younger people.
The legislation surrounding pension funds is extremely complicated and the case is now in the hands of the Pensions Ombudsman. I have written to the Ombudsman asking him to keep me informed of the progress of his investigation and will contact you again when I receive a reply.
DAVID WILLETTS MP
CC of letter by David Willets to Pensions Ombudsman
Dr Julian Farrand
Pensions Ombudsman
11 Belgrave Road
London SW1V lRB
I have a number of former IBM employees living in my constituency who are concerned about the changes that have been made to their occupational pension lund. The Pensions Ombudsman is currently investigating the issue (OPAS reference number 26121). I would be grateful if you could inform me of the progress of this investigation, as I am keen to ensure my constituents' rights are protected and that they are treated fairly