United Kingdom

UK - Government plans to remove the requirement on schemes to offer additional voluntary contributions could deter savings, experts warn.

UK - Association for Institutional Multi-Manager Investing members saw assets under management increase by approximately £1bn last year.

UK - The Pensions Bill lacks substance and detail, Conservative work and pensions spokesman David Willetts says.

UK - Gartmore continues to grow its $4bn hedge fund business, with the launch of a new European directional fund.

UK - Trade union Amicus has warned staff at engineering firm Airflow Streamlines that they may not get a pension.

UK - Government plans to scrap vesting periods could be the "nail in the coffin" for final salary schemes, employers warn.

UK - The pensions ombudsman has been told to cap compensation paid to scheme members for "distress" caused by maladministration at £1000.

UK - Updating computer systems to cope with changes outlined in the Pensions Bill will cost large providers up to £30m, a management consultant claims.

UK - Smokers are missing out on increased rate annuities which can boost their retirement income by up to 5%, experts warn.

UK - Employers will be forced to consult with trade unions and staff before making any changes to pension schemes, under a new amendment to the Bill.