Pensions - Articles - David Gauke goes as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

 ‘It is deeply disappointing that David Gauke has been moved from his role in charge of UK pensions policy. Pensioners and workers saving for their retirement need someone in charge at the DWP who understands pensions and who has a good relationship with the Treasury. David Gauke ticked both of those boxes and it is very regrettable that he was given just seven months in the role. Once again we have a revolving door of pensions ministers which will deprive us of the stability which such a long-term area requires’.

 Commenting on the inclusion of ‘social care’ in the title of the Department of Health, Steve Webb added: ‘Including social care in the name of the Department for Health is a welcome, if belated, recognition of the vital importance of this policy area. Just two years ago the last government downgraded the status of the care services minister, so this is a welcome u-turn. But the health secretary already has his hands more than full dealing with immediate and long-term NHS pressures. It is therefore vitally important that a senior minister is appointed within the Department who is able to focus specifically on social care and who can help the government move beyond green papers and consultations to real action’.