This Note provides background reading on the Pensions Bill, which is due to have its second reading in the House of Lords on 3 December 2013.
Pensions Bill (HL Bill 55 of 2013-14) (514 KB , PDF)
The Pensions Bill makes provision for reform of the state pension system, including the introduction of a single-tier state pension. It also contains reforms of bereavement benefits, provision for amending the timetable for increasing pensionable age and a number of measures relating to private pensions, including the provision of an automatic transfer scheme for accrued rights to pension benefits.
This Library Note provides an overview of the six parts of the Bill, and a short summary of proceedings at second reading in the House of Commons. It then examines the debates at committee and report stages in further detail, with reference to key elements within the Bill. Finally, the Note provides a brief summary of the debate at third reading.
Pensions Bill (HL Bill 55 of 2013-14) (514 KB , PDF)
On 9 March, the Covid-19 Day of Reflection 2025 took place to mark five years since the start of the pandemic in the UK. This briefing has been prepared ahead of a debate in the House of Lords focused on the support available to those bereaved because of Covid-19. It outlines the help available for families and sets out background information on the Covid-19 Day of Reflection, as well as the UK Covid-19 inquiry.
On 6 March 2025, the House of Lords is scheduled to hold a debate marking International Women’s Day focused on the steps being taken to promote women’s participation and leadership in science and technology. The motion for the debate is sponsored by Baroness Gustafsson, the government minister for investment. This briefing provides an overview of data and research in this area, as well as information on government policy.
The Post Office introduced the Horizon computer system into branches from 1999. The system, used for accounting and stock-taking, inaccurately recorded losses and money missing in branches. The Post Office has identified 700 convictions in cases it prosecuted between 1999 and 2015 in which Horizon evidence may have featured. Compensation schemes have been established by the Post Office and the Department for Business and Trade. However, progress in making payments has been criticised for being too slow.
