Small defined contribution (DC) schemes will be “nudged” into consolidation under new government plans to ramp up governance.

Guy Opperman says he will not slow down on aiming to implement “ambitious” programmes to tackle climate change while the government will also continue to intervene where it feels the industry is not doing enough.

Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) will continue its discussions over whether a pre-and post-retirement dual discount rate approach could help plug serious funding concerns for its defined benefit (DB) section.

Scottish Widows is aiming to boost its sustainability practices by working under a new responsible investment and stewardship framework.

Phoenix Group has confirmed the acquisition of rival life insurer ReAssure Group with the deal set for completion in the next six months.

This week’s top stories include the rebrand of KPMG’s former pensions advisory practice, and the Department for Work and Pensions’ announcement that the general levy will rise 10% from 1 April.

The pensions of former staff of collapsed British airline Flybe will not be protected by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) as it sits outside the lifeboat’s UK jurisdiction.

New chancellor Rishi Sunak is likely to ease restrictions on pension tax relief for high earners to meet the NHS workforce crisis.

The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) has launched a Belfast-based regional group to boost member engagement opportunities across Northern Ireland.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says it will press ahead with a 10% increase to the general levy from 1 April, despite a severe industry backlash to a consultation on the issue.