United Kingdom

UK/EU - Pensions rights for same-sex partners have moved a step closer following a Court of Appeal ruling, gay campaigners believe. But lawyers claim the decision - which involves a tenancy agreement - will not apply to pensions.

UK - Trade unions are urging the government to make pension scheme membership and employer contributions compulsory.

UK/EUROPE - The investment consulting industry has split into two distinct camps over selling manager-of-manager products.

UK - Former Marconi finance director John Mayo has lodged a £1.6m claim against the beleaguered firm for underfunding his pension.

UK - A test case could resolve part-timer issues over backdated pension contribution repayments, lawyers claim.

UK - Defined contribution schemes pose a potential sex discrimination headache for companies, a leading lawyer claims.

UK - Gullwing Asset Management has launched a seven-year property fund aimed at SIPPs and SSASs.

UK - Lawyers are urging the government to "make up its mind" over whether it is going to give the pensions ombudsman power to process group claims.

UK - Unions are ignoring the reality of falling equity markets when they contest final salary scheme closures, bosses claim.

UK - Gartmore Investment Management is urging fund managers to improve the transparency of transaction costs or face possible government legislation