Oral Answers to Questions

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, responded to tabled questions on occupational pensions, planning reform, inward investment, and economic growth. On occupational pensions, Reeves acknowledged the importance of pension savings for retirement and stated that the government's pensions review aims to ensure pensioners receive a good deal. She defended the government's commitment to the pension triple lock, which will see the state pension rise by the highest of inflation, average earnings or 2.5%. Reeves also highlighted efforts to boost the uptake of pension credit to support the poorest pensioners. Regarding planning reform, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Darren Jones, outlined the government's plans to deliver 1.5 million new homes, including reforms to the developer contributions system. He also responded to questions about making the planning system more focused on meeting housing need rather than "hope value". On inward investment, Reeves emphasized the government's focus on stability, investment and reform to build confidence and encourage private sector investment. She highlighted plans to host an international investment summit and work with local leaders to support growth in key sectors, such as the north-east. In response to questions on economic growth, Reeves stressed the government's mission to boost growth as the route to improving living standards. She outlined various measures, including planning reforms, the national wealth fund, and the pensions review, as part of the government's approach. Reeves also defended the government's fiscal responsibility, arguing that it is necessary for economic stability and long-term growth. During the topical questions session, the Shadow Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, questioned the Chancellor on the appointment of a Treasury director with links to the Labour party. Reeves defended the appointment, arguing that the previous government had also made controversial appointments. The discussion also covered topics such as support for pensioners, public sector pay, and the government's approach to tackling corruption.