Changes to auto-enrolment planned

A second Bill extending the auto-enrolment regime was introduced to the House of Commons on February 27, 2023 (when it had its first reading), and the DWP confirmed its support for the Bill on March 3, 2023, when it had its second reading.
  
The Bill contains provisions that have a similar effect, implementing two key recommendations made by the 2017 independent review of auto-enrolment:

• Introducing a power to make regulations reducing the lower age threshold for auto-enrolment from 22 to 18.
• Introducing a power to make regulations to reduce or repeal the amount of the lower limit of the qualifying earnings band so that contributions are calculated from the first pound earned.

The regulations would be made following a period of consultation on the implementation approach and timing, which is intended to help to ensure they can be implemented in a suitable way to help manage the increased costs involved for all parties. A precise timeline for the changes has not be confirmed.

The committee stage took place on March 15, 2023, when the Bill's provisions were agreed as drafted. Laura Trott, pensions minister, confirmed that a consultation on the implementation and timetable for the changes should take place in the Autumn. The Committee Stage took place on March 15, 2023, with the remaining Commons’ stages scheduled for March 24, 2023.