Overview
- The government issued a 31 December written response to Baroness Deborah Stedman-Scott’s question on potential extra protections for women’s pensions during unpaid childcare.
- Ministers said women on the new State Pension receive almost £20 more per week than under the pre‑2016 rules.
- The update stated women now receive about 98% of the average amount men receive, compared with 86% under the old system.
- Officials highlighted National Insurance credits, including for childcare for children under 12, and reported eligible women’s private‑sector participation now matches men’s under automatic enrolment.
- The statement acknowledged significant gaps in participation and wealth and said a revived Pension Commission will examine long‑term reforms.