The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries has played an active role in informing the Scottish independence referendum debate. Martin Potter, Leader of the IFoA’s Scottish Board, comments on the publication of the Scotland Analysis report prepared by the Department for Work and Pensions.
“Many IFoA members in their professional capacity advise pension schemes and interact with Government in both Westminster and Holyrood. As experts in analysing longevity and costing long term pension promises, actuaries are at the forefront of the changing pensions landscape. Today's HM Government report shows in detail that the UK and Scotland are both facing the challenges of an ageing society. The cost of supporting pensioners needs to be met from taxes or National Insurance contributions, the majority of which is paid by those of working age. However, in Scotland the number of working-age people is projected to increase more slowly than the rest of the UK. This means it is likely that pensions for the growing pensioner population will require a greater proportion of government expenditure in Scotland in decades to come.
“The work undertaken by the UK Government, outlined in today’s paper, offers helpful new data and analysis demonstrating the amount and value of benefits provided to people in Scotland and across the UK. Whilst the political debate will continue, having this information presented in this way enables a more informed discussion.
“Today’s report follows the policy outline of the Scottish Government’s proposals for pensions should Scotland become independent. With this additional context, we believe that ahead of September's vote, the public would be better informed by more detail from the Scottish Government on how the additional costs and risks of running its own pensions system would be managed within an independent Scotland.
“As an independent professional body with a Royal Charter the IFoA is working with both the UK and Scottish Governments. Doing so serves the public interest by informing the debate on these important issues ahead of September’s referendum.
“We look forward to continuing to work with all key stakeholders in this debate, regardless of their stance on the question of independence.”
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