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Minutes
PENSIONS COMMITTEE
24 March 2026
Meeting held at Committee Room 5 - Civic Centre
Committee Members Present:
Councillors Reeta Chamdal (Chair), Stuart Mathers, Labina Basit and Peter Smallwood
Also Present:
Catherine Edgecombe – Hampshire County Council
Craig Alexander – Hymans
Dagmar Dvorak – London Civ
Tim Mpofu – London Civ
Johnny Moore – ISIO
Roger Hackett – Pension Board Member
Marian George – Independent Advisor
Councillor Nasser Abby
LBH Officers Present:
Karl Periera – Trainee Pension Fund Accountant
Pete Carpenter – Director, Pensions, Treasury & Statutory Accounts
Anisha Teji – Senior Democratic Services Officer
Tunde Adekoya – Finance Manager - Pensions & Governance
Steve Muldoon – Corporate Director of Finance
156. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE (Agenda Item 1)
Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Kaushik Banerjee.
157. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST IN MATTERS COMING BEFORE THIS MEETING
(Agenda Item 2)
None.
158. MINUTES OF THE MEETING ON 9 DECEMBER 2025 (Agenda Item 3)
RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting on 9 December 2025 be approved
as an accurate record, subject to a minor typographical correction to Minute 149.
159. TO CONFIRM THAT ITEMS MARKED PART I WILL BE CONSIDERED IN PUBLIC
AND THOSE MARKED PART II WILL BE CONSIDERED IN PRIVATE (Agenda Item
4)
It was confirmed that agenda items 1 -12 would be heard in Part II and items 13 – 15
would be heard in Part II.
160. ADMINISTRATION REPORT (Agenda Item 5)
The Director of Pensions , Treasury & Statutory Accounts introduced the report,
confirming that Hampshire Pension Service continued to deliver high -level performance
with 100% SLA complian ce and significant membership growth (18.37% since the
partnership began). All December casework had been completed on time, 99.71% of
Member Benefit Statements had been issued and 461 items of work remained
outstanding, including 139 transfers and 260 McC loud records being recalculated. The
Pensions Dashboard was connected on 12 December but not yet public. Members also
noted strong Internal Audit ratings for Member Deaths and Pension Transfers and that
Cyber Security was under review this quarter.
Clarification was sought on whether McCloud would be delivered to the remaining
pensions within the stated timescales. It was confirmed that delivery was expected by
the end of the summer and that the revised timescales would be met, with earlier
delays recognise d due to software availability issues. It was noted that there was a
wider organisational and government drive toward digital engagement including tax -
related processes.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee noted the administration update.
161. TRIENNIAL VALUATION RESULTS (Agenda Item 6)
The Committee was informed that the 2025 triennial valuation had been completed,
showing a funding improvement from 88% in March 2022 to 118%, shifting from a
£167m deficit to a £211m surplus and reducin g the average contribution rate from
23.7% to 19%. The only remaining element, the Gender Pensions Gap analysis, would
be finalised by Hymans in line with new GAD guidance before 31 March 2026. The
Committee also noted that the Funding Strategy Statement had been consulted on with
no resulting changes and was presented for approval.
Clarification was requested on the assurances and level of certainty underpinning the
actuarial assumptions, particularly in relation to ensuring that employer contribution
rates would not increase following the current valuation cycle. Further clarification was
sought on the robustness of the estimates, including the application of the secondary
rate, the impact of reduced employer contributions and the level of ris k to the Fun d in
the event of employer financial distress.
Reference was made to the Fund’s risk and register matrix and clarification was sought
on the likelihood of contribution rate increases and whether any employers were poorly
funded on a stand -alone basis. It was confirmed that no employers within the Fund
were in such a position.
Clarification was also requested on the impact of geopolitical events in the Middle East
on the assumptions used. It was explained that such risks had been incorporated i nto
the modelling through scenario testing, including variations in inflation and investment
returns. It was noted that the Fund’s position had improved since March 2025, although
recent market events had had some impact however, movements to date were broadly
in line with general market trends. It was further noted that any material changes would
be captured at the next valuation.
By way of comparison, it was noted that short -term volatility had been experienced
during the Ukraine and Russia conflict and that such ev ents were reflected within the
modelling framework. It was explained that any underperformance in investment
returns over the next three years would be addressed at the next valuation. It was
confirmed that employer contributions had not been reduced on th is basis and that the
Fund was considered resilient, given its scale, long -term investment horizon and
maturity.
On the investment side, attention was drawn to the importance of monitoring cashflow,
particularly in light of reduced contributio ns and increasing pension payments, and this
was identified as an area to be kept under review.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee:
1. Agreed the draft Triennial Valuation Report.
2. Approved the Funding Strategy Statement for the London Borough of
Hillingdon Pension Fund.
162. RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT POLICY (Agenda Item 7)
The Committee received the Responsible Investments Update report, which enabled
approval of the updated 2026 Responsible Investment Policy. Members were
reminded of the previous petition and the two workshops held in January and February
to develop the draft. The policy positioned the Fund for full asset pooling with the LCIV
by March 2026, strengthened climate and stewardship commitments, introduced
exclusions and a 5% impact -investment target, embedded four priority UN SDGs and
set out an enhanced stewardship and governance framework. It was noted that the
LCIV had reviewed the updated policy and that the major changes related to asset
pooling, Net Zero commitments, ESG expectations and the adoption of the four priority
SDGs.
Members queried whether the Fund’s current approach to responsible investment
sufficiently reflected ethical considerations, particularly in relation to weapons
manufacturing, and noted concerns raised by resid ents. Reference was made to UN
Sustainable Development Goal 16, with emphasis on human rights, long -term
sustainability and the ethical expectations of future pension fund members. It was also
noted that some local authorities had taken steps to divest fro m arms -related
investments.
In response, it was confirmed that all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals were
included within the appendix and would be considered alongside government
guidance. Members were advised that current guidance discouraged immediat e
divestment and that the draft policy represented the starting point of a longer -term
responsible investment approach. It was explained that most investments were held
through the London CIV, with options expected to develop over time, and that any
future transition would need to balance ethical considerations, costs and investment
returns.
It was noted that previous discussions had indicated a preference to progress towards
Pillar 2, with potential scope to consider Pillar 3 in future. Officers advised t hat suitable
Pillar 3 options were not currently available through the London CIV and that
immediate disinvestment would not be appropriate. Members’ intentions were noted,
and it was confirmed that a gradual transition would be pursued when suitable products
became available.
The draft Responsible Investment Policy was considered, and it was noted that some
uncertainty remained around the pooling process, which could constrain progress on
more impactful investments. It was further observed that, in the ab sence of mandatory
pooling requirements, greater progress may have been achievable within the Fund’s
own portfolio.
Concern was raised about the lack of a clear timeline for moving from Pillar 2 to Pillar
3, with a risk that ESG progress could be delayed . The Committee emphasised its
desire to actively progress this area and requested clarity from London CIV on the
availability of suitable Pillar 3 products, including an indicative timeline.
In response, it was confirmed that an update on product develop ment would be
provided at the next meeting. It was noted that short -term progress was likely to be
limited due to ongoing change and consolidation, and it was agreed that progress
should be reviewed on a six-monthly basis to monitor emerging opportunities.
The Committee acknowledged that the Fund was currently constrained by pooling
arrangements and government guidance, and that the draft policy reflected an
appropriate strategic direction at this stage. It was agreed that London CIV should
continue to be actively engaged to support progress towards future Pillar 3 options and
that six -monthly progress updates would be included in the work programme, with
reporting arrangements strengthened to more formally capture responsible investment
progress.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee noted and approved the draft
responsible investment policy with the slight amendment to have it included
quarterly in committee agendas.
163. INVESTMENT STRATEGY STATEMENT (Agenda Item 8)
The Committee receiv ed the report setting out the updated Investment Strategy
Statement (ISS) following the triennial valuation. Members were reminded that the
initial review of the Fund’s investment strategy began in September 2025, supported by
training and further discussi ons in November on strategic options, expected returns
and risk. At its December 2025 meeting the Committee considered three asset
allocation options and agreed Option 3 as recommended by Isio.
The revised ISS, presented for approval, reflected draft 2025 guidance and the planned
transition of all assets to the London CIV from April 2026. It also included the
introduction of UK residential housing exposure, increased allocations to private equity
and private credit, adjustments to the equity mix, considera tion of currency hedging
and revised control ranges. These changes were forecast to increase the modelled
return from 9.1% to 9.4%, alongside a small increase in value at risk (VaR).
Members raised questions about the level of assurance available to enabl e the London
CIV to manage investment specifications on the Fund’s behalf. Concerns were
expressed about the risk of providers effectively marking their own performance and
Members emphasised the need for continued challenge and oversight. It was
acknowledged that a constructive working relationship had been established between
officers and the London CIV and that the Fund’s experience in managing investment
partner re lationships would support effective scrutiny. Members stressed the
importance of maintaini ng the Fund’s fiduciary duty, including delivering performance,
managing ESG risks and protecting the Fund’s reputation.
ESG concerns had previously arisen and Members emphasised the need for issues to
continue to be reported to the Committee, with London CIV engagement where
concerns arose around performance, ESG standards or reputational risk. It was noted
that further clarity was needed on accountability arrangemen ts and how the London
CIV would be held to account under the new regulatory framework duri ng the transition
period.
Members were advised that governance and accountability arrangements for the
investment pool, including matters raised by the Pension Board, would be addressed
under a later agenda item.
Clarification was also sought on the Fund ’s compliance with the Fit for the Future
regulations in light of recent deadlines. In response, it was explained that the report
included a table setting out key req uirements and forthcoming deadlines, with
compliance currently assessed as green or amber, indicating that full compliance would
be achieved. It was noted that the Fund was relatively well placed compared to some
other authorities due to progress with pooling, although a significant programme of
work remained over the coming months.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee noted and approved the Draft
Investment Strategy Statement
164. INVESTMENT STRATEGY AND FUND MANAGER PERFORMANCE - PART I
(Agenda Item 9)
The funding level was reported to have reduced to 127%, reflecting a 19% quarterly fall
driven mainly by a £230m increase in liabilities. This step change was attributed to the
move from the 2022 to the 2025 valuation assumptions, particularly more prudent
financial assumptions such as the discount rate. Assets had increased t o £1.58bn, up
2.64%, and the Fund achieved a return of 2.8%, marginally outperforming its
benchmark. Global equities and property remained overweight against strategi c
targets.
The Alpha Growth Fund continued to be monitored for underperformance, progress
was reported on the London CIV’s Fit for the Future reforms and the launch of the LCIV
Global Core Equity Fund was expected in Q2 2026. The outlook for 2026 was
described as positive, supported by expected global growth, increased investment in AI
and supportive fiscal and monetary policy.
Members sought clarification on progress with local infrastructure investment and
whether this remained an area of uncertainty. I n response, it was advised that
discussions were ongoing with the London CIV and other rel evant parties. It was noted
that several funds were expected to become available, subject to meeting delivery
requirements and appropriate return criteria.
It was further noted that local investment opportunities were likely to involve identifying
suitable projects within London CIV structures and ensuring the Fund was well
positioned as opportunities arose. Members were advised that this would be a
longer-term proces s, with the potential to deliver local impact and that for regulatory
purposes “local” inv estment was defined as the London CIV area, including London
and Buckinghamshire. It was also noted that competition for such funding was
significant.
Further clarification was requested on how the Fund could best position itself to access
these opportunities. In response, it was advised that this remained subject to ongoing
discussions with the London CIV and that approaches elsewhere had often been driven
by mayoral or regional arrangements. Greater clarity was expected once the relevant
legislation had been fully implemented and operational arrangements confirmed.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee noted the funding and performance
update.
165. RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT (Agenda Item 10)
The Responsible Investments Update was introduc ed by the Finance Manager
(Pensions & Governance). The report outlined how fund managers were embedding
ESG within their investment processes and reported on proxy vo ting activity for LGIM
and London CIV managers, with director elections identified as the largest category of
shareholder resolutions. Voting statistics were noted, and an update was provided on
LGIM’s and LAPFF’s work to support business decarbonisation and net zero
objectives.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee:
1. Noted the fund managers’ ESG activities and compliance efforts.
2. Noted LCIV & LAPFF activities.
166. RISK REGISTER REPORT (Agenda Item 11)
The Risk Register Report was introduced by the Finance Manager (Pensions &
Governance), who outlined the key risks and associated mitigation measures.
Members noted that two reports had been presented covering open and closed risks,
with seven risks closed and now managed as business as usual or tolerated, and
seven risks remaining open and actively managed. While the overall risk position was
reported to be unchanged, it was highlighted that the Fit for the Future legislation,
expected to come into force on 1 April 2026, had yet to be approved by Parliament.
Members were advised that assets were being transferred in line with the spirit of the
proposed changes to achieve full pooling with the London CIV, and that continued
delay in approving the legislation could become a significant risk if unresolved by the
next meeting.
Members asked whether potential changes in council ad ministrations, and the resulting
risk of shifts in investment approac h, should be reflected on the risk register. It was
clarified that this concern was raised from a governance perspective rather than a
party‑political one, with Members noting that change s in administration could lead to
different approaches to responsible investment and potentially affect the Fund’s
strategic direction.
In response, Members were advised that the Committee operated on an apolitical basis
and that safeguards were in place to prevent sudden or inappropriate changes to
investment strategy. It was noted that transaction costs and value ‑for‑money
considerations acted as a strong constraint on rapid change, particularly given the size
of the Fund and the financial impact of asset transitions. Reference was also made to
emerging regulations that could provide the Secretary of State with ce rtain investment
powers, although these had not yet been fully implemented and remained subject to
challenge.
It was further noted that while changes in administrative priorities could present a risk,
a more sign ificant issue related to levels of knowledg e and understanding. Members
were assured that a training policy was in place, including mandatory training for
Committee Members, and that this was monitored regularly. It was confirmed that new
Members would receive training to ensure a clear understandi ng of fiduciary duties and
the apolitical nature of pension fund governance. Reference was also made to the
Committee’s work programme and statutory requirements around contribution rates
and actuarial advice, which limited the scope for change between valuation periods.
RESOLVED: That the Pensions Committee:
1. Considered and agreed the Risk Register in terms of the approach, the
specific risks identified, and the measures being taken to mitigate those
current risks.
2. Noted the revised format and agreed the r etired risks and those which
remained open.
167. GOVERNANCE (Agenda Item 12)
The Committee discussed the Governance report which considered the workplan,
governance updates, approval of various triennial and interim policy updates.
Members raised concerns about levels of experience following elections and whether
lessons had been learned from previous periods of change. It was advised that training
arrangements were being reviewed, including consideration of London -wide
frameworks, and it was confirmed that mandatory training wou ld be introduced under
the Fit for the Future programme before Members participated in meetings.
Clarification was also sought on the future management of key officer risk. Members
were advised that the role wou ld become a statutory position from September, with
associated finance arrangements under review. The approach to the risk register was
agreed, and the governance update was noted, including the revised work plan, future
meeting dates, training updates and progress towards compliance with the Genera l
Code of Practice.
The draft Pension Fund Annual Report for 2024/25, including the audited accounts,
was presented and approved. A correction to Committee membership dates was noted,
the training record was to be updated accordingly, and the Chair thanked officers,
advisers and Members for their contribution to the Fund’s progress.
The Pensions Committee:
1. Noted the dates for Pensions Committee meetings.
2. Noted Committee Work Plan.
3. Noted Committee’s Continuous Professional Development update.
4. Noted GCoP Update.
5. Noted and Approve Draft Pension Fund Annual Report.
168. APPROVE RESTRICTED MINUTES FROM MEETING ON 24 SEPTEMBER 2025
(Agenda Item 13)
RESOLVED: That the Committee appr oved the restricted minutes from the
meeting on 9 December 2025.
169. GOVERNANCE PART II (Agenda Item 14)
This item was discussed as a Part II item without the press or public present as the
information under discussion contained confid ential or exempt information as defined
by law in the Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985. This was because it
discussed ‘information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular
person (including the authority holding that information)’ (paragraph 3 of the schedule
to the Act).
RESOLVED: That the Committee noted the recommendation as detailed in the
confidential report.
170. INVESTMENT PART II - STRATEGY REVIEW AND FIT FOR THE FUTURE UPDATE
(Agenda Item 15)
This item was discussed as a Part II it em without the press or public present as the
information under discussion contained confidential or exempt information as defined
by law in the Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985. This was because it
discussed ‘information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular
person (including the authority holding that information)’ (paragraph 3 of the schedule
to the Act).
RESOLVED: That the Committee noted the recommendation as detail ed in the
confidential report
The meeting, which commenced at 5.00 pm, closed at 8.09 pm.
These are the minut es of the above meeting. For more information on any of the
resolutions please contact Anisha Teji on ateji@hillingdon.gov.uk. Circulation of these
minutes is to Councillors, Officers, the Press and Members of the Public.
Text extracted automatically from the PDF, so layout, tables and images are not shown. Open the original PDF on LB Hillingdon’s website.