ICOTS8: Scientific Programme: Paper 1B1

This paper is from Session 1B: Evidence-based policy making

Full topic list

which comes under Topic 1: Data and context in statistics education: towards an evidence-based society

(Tuesday 13th, 16:30-18:00)

Evidence-based policy making: the Pensions Commission and beyond

Presenter

Joanna Littlechild (Department for Work and Pensions, United Kingdom)

Co-author

Bav Hirani (Department for Work and Pensions, United Kingdom)

Abstract

The Pensions Commission first report (2004) set out the evidence base in relation to pension provision in the UK drawing on national surveys, academic and social research, modelling and administrative data. Its recommendations (2005) were similarly evidence-based. Since then the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has worked to introduce pension reforms through the 2007 Pension Act, focused on a fairer State Pension system and the 2008 Pensions Act and the Workplace Pensions Reforms Regulations that aim to increase private pension saving in the UK. This paper will focus on the Workplace Pensions Reforms. Evidence-based impact assessments and implementation plans have been published. Discussions are ongoing to develop an Evaluation Strategy. Liaison continues between DWP and other colleagues to build on existing surveys, such as those produced by the Office of National Statistics to develop the evidence base for the future.