MPs' pensions swept into public sector reforms

MPs pensions will be subject to the same reforms as the wider public sector and a new scheme will be launched in 2015, the leader of the Commons said.

MPs would be forced to contribute more into their schemes, work longer and move from final salary to career average provision.

Sir George Young told MPs last week their pensions will be swept into reforms proposed by Lord Hutton's Independent Public Service Pensions Commission, in March.

Future responsibility for MPs' pensions will be transferred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA).

Young will table a motion before the House rises for summer recess to invite the Commons to support Hutton's public service pension reforms.

He said: "Parliamentary pensions must be reformed in the light of the commission's findings and subsequent application to other public service schemes.

"There is no case for MPs being treated differently from other public servants on this issue."

He will also propose that IPSA introduces a new pension scheme for MPs by 2015, based on the commission's findings.

It will invite IPSA to up contribution rates for MPs from 1 April, 2012 in line with changes in pension contribution rates for other public service schemes.

"Given the failure of self-regulation, which so damaged Parliament's reputation, this represents a significant step in drawing a line under the problems of the past and rebuilding public confidence," said Young.