Here are a few answers to questions employers often ask. As always with pensions, it's never simple, so we'll be pleased to explain any points in more detail. Please email, phone or write to us, and we'll show how our experience can help you

Q: Do I need to change my Pension
Scheme Rules following 'A Day'?

A: Yes, there are several important changes including higher allowable levels of contribution, tax-free cash entitlements, and rights to preserved pensions on leaving service. Your pension scheme rules will not be altered automatically. Web.ts can advise on rule changes.

Q: What is the Pensions Protection Fund
and what does it cost?

A: This was introduced by the Government to provide some protection of benefits for members of defined benefit schemes where an employer becomes insolvent. There is a levy applied to each scheme based on its potential risk. The worse the scheme's or employer's financial position, the higher their levy.

Q: What events must I report to The Pensions
Regulator (TPR) in respect of my scheme?

A: There are really too many to list here but Trustees, Employers, their Accountants, Legal Advisers, Fund Managers and IFAs are all required to notify TPR on a wide range of events. TPR will give clearance if the event does not have significant impact on funding the scheme's liabilities.

Q: How do the new Age Discrimination regulations
affect my pension scheme?

A: Age discrimination legislation affects all pension schemes from December 2006 onwards. All employees are normally entitled to work to age 65 and may have the right to continue longer if they are fit enough to do their job. Employers must follow strict procedures and timescales if they don't wish the employee to continue work after age 65. Web.ts can help you comply.

Q: Have the requirements for Member Nominated
Trustees (MNTs) altered?

A: MNTs are compulsory from April 2006 and arrangements must be in place by October 2007 at the latest. The 'opt out' concessions under Pensions Act 1995 have ceased. One-third of the Board of Trustees must comprise MNTs suitably trained to comply with trustees' knowledge and understanding requirements. Web.ts can help with this process.

Q: What do trustees have to do to keep their
knowledge up to date?

A: It is now a legal requirement rather than a recommendation that trustees must have knowledge of pension and trust law, and be familiar with their own scheme's trust deed and rules. They must keep records of the training undertaken and competence levels. Web.ts can help with training.

Q: What if we are considering a take over of another company?

A: It's essential to carefully examine all their pension arrangements, as there could be substantial liabilities affecting the proposed purchase price for the business or even render the acquisition untenable. Expert advice is indispensable and Web.ts can provide it.

Q: How do I make sure my employees understand
and appreciate the value of the Pension Scheme we provide?

A: Ask Web Trustee Services to devise an employee communication programme.

Q: How do the TUPE Regulations affect Pension Schemes?

A: I have absolutely no idea, but I know a man who does - ask Gerry Baker!

Q: When did Gerry Baker start his Amateur Dramatic career?

A: He appeared in Anton Chekhov's "On the High Road" in 1968 when he was still at school. Wisely, he took his drama teachers advice that a career in pensions would be more appropriate.