Reducing discrimination in provision of pensions

European anti-discrimination laws coming into force over the next three years mean pension fund trustees will need to ensure fair treatment for same sex couples and those of different faiths

Implementation of the European Employment Directive will see many anti-discrimination laws affecting pensions being introduced across the EU. These cover the treatment of part-timers, fixed-term workers and agency staff, as well as same sex-couples and gender recognition. The directive aims to end discrimination on the grounds of age, religion, belief, sexual orientation or disability. It must be implemented in EU member states by 2 December 2003, although there is a three-year extension in relation to the age and disability provisions, of which the UK Government intends to take full adva...