Pensions Bill

I shall speak to Amendment No. 8. I am fully aware that it is pushing at an open door. After Second Reading, the Minister sent a helpful letter setting out how the new policy of carer’s credits for those caring for at least 20 hours a week would work in the light of the agreement now reached that if carers looked after those not in receipt of certain benefits, they could still qualify if certified as carrying out this important work by a health or social care professional. Not only will this new right build up entitlement to the basic state pension, it will also increase the number of people accruing entitlement to the second state pension. In the letter, the Minister reiterates the announcement made by James Purnell, the Minister for State for Pensions Reforms, and goes on to say: "““You may wish to note that he””—" Mr Purnell— "““also stated that we would explore how health and social care professionals will be involved in the certification process for the carer’s credit through the review of the 1999 national carer’s strategy””." I gather that that is due to be completed by the end of this year, after which the relevant regulations are expected to be laid. This all sounds fine, but we need some cast-iron guarantees. The word ““explore”” and the phrase, "““due to be completed by the end of the year””," could lead to drift, particularly as there is little time in hand. Can the Minister assure the Committee that there will be no foot-dragging in the area of deciding exactly who can qualify as a carer and who can certify a carer? I am certainly not ungrateful for the way that the Government have moved on this matter, but we need a few more certainties on the record.