Under the new pensions bill introduced (29th November), the Government has decided to put an end to the inequality that currently exists in the state pension – this will prove most beneficial to women although men are due to benefit as well. Today’s pensions are unequal, with 30% of women retiring on a full state pension compared to 85% of men. The qualifying period from 2010 onwards is going to be cut to 30 years for both men and women instead of 39 years for a woman and 44 for a man.

However, ministers have come under fire for refusing to fully compensate savers who have been wasting their money by topping up their pensions on advice given to them by the Government.

Under current pension rules, workers who make insufficient National Insurance contributions (for example women who stop worker to bring up children) can then make annual top-up payments to ensure they qualify for a full state pension.

Experts are warning that anyone who has been making top-ups for their pension have been wasting their money. Only those who have who have made a top up since last May (25th), when the new legislation was announced, would be entitled to a refund.

To read further information about this article please visit http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business

Get ready for 1st July 2007

As you may be aware England will go smoke free on 1st July 2007. From then on it will be illegal to smoke or let others smoke in virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces throughout the country.

If anyone smokes in enclosed parts of your premises or inside your company vehicles the new law may affect your business and as a result you may need to take certain measures to comply with the new laws when they come into force.

As a business owner you should be aware that you are required to display a no-smoking sign at each entrance to smoke-free premises. Many vehicles used for work purposed will also be covered by the smoke free legislation and these will also need to be supplied with no-smoking signs.

Although July seems a long way off there are things you can do to ensure you are prepared for when the law comes into effect. We recommend that you register to receive the latest information and guidelines at www.smokefreeengland.co.uk/stayinformed

Quote of the week

"Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler"

Albert Einstein