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Sunday, June 27, 2004

Pensions

Last month I crossed another threshold in life. I tried not to cross it but alas I had no option. I officially became a pensioner!

I discovered that I can claim my pension or defer it. Do I grab the money and run? Or do I invest by putting off my claim and then drawing it in up to five years time with an extra 7.5%?

“Grab the money and run!” Shouts the demon on my shoulder. After years of giving advice to others I didn’t know what to do! So enter the internet and check the department of Work and Pensions web site.

Good news! A Bill is going through Parliament that will allow me to defer my pension for any length of time and then get it with an extra 10.4% or take a lump sum as well as the original pension. Can’t be bad. I mustn’t miss this vote!

Tell all those approaching pension age out there – and don’t forget to vote Labour. This message comes a bit late for the June elections! Sorry about that!

PS for Ingrid. You make a good case for the Sudan. I don’t find these decisions easy but I am persuaded by the no lobby at the moment.

Dear Clive
Just to say that I enjoy you web site even though you are not in my area.
The views you express are very refreshing compared to the PC rubish of your collegues
Thanks again and keep it going/
Neil
33 Tinsley Lane, Crawley Sussex
PS Dont miss any "Pension" votes or they will give it to much more worthy causes. Perhaps child molester rehab!!!!