Explanatory Note
(This note is not part of the Regulations)
These Regulations impose requirements on occupational pension schemes and personal pension schemes relating to the provision of information. The Regulations replace the Personal Pension Schemes (Disclosure of Information) Regulations 1987 (S.I. 1987/1110) and the Occupational Pension Schemes (Disclosure of Information) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1655) which are now revoked. The provisions of those Instruments that are carried forward are consolidated and amended.
Part 1 of the Regulations contains general provisions. Regulation 1 provides for the date the Regulations come into force, the date certain provisions cease to have effect, revocations and introduces the Schedule of amendments to regulations. Regulation 2 provides for interpretation. Regulation 3 makes provision relating to recognised trades unions. Regulation 4 sets out the application of the Regulations and indicates which of the duties apply in particular cases. Regulation 5 provides for the imposition of civil penalties for breach of duty by an occupational pension scheme.
Part 2 contains provisions concerning the information that must be given at the initial stage of membership of a pension scheme.
Part 3 contains provision concerning the information that must be given when there are changes to pension schemes.
Part 4 contains provision concerning information that must be given on request.
Part 5 contains provision concerning information that must be given relating to the funding of schemes and the benefits that the schemes may provide.
Part 6 contains provision concerning the information that must be given when the benefits from the scheme are to be accessed.
Part 7 contains provision concerning the information that must be given when the pension in payment changes.
Part 8 contains provisions concerning the information that must be given when schemes are winding up.
Part 9 contains provisions concerning the giving of information or documents required to be given under the Regulations.
An analysis of the impact of this legislation has been made. A copy is available in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament. A copy is annexed to the Explanatory Memorandum which is available alongside this instrument on www.legislation.gov.uk. Copies may also be obtained from the Better Regulation Unit of the Department for Work and Pensions, 2D, Caxton House, Tothill Street, London SW1H 9NA.