WALTONS Clark Whitehill, the North-east based firm of chartered accountants and business advisors, says any uncertainty over Government plans to introduce auto- enrolment onto pension schemes should be urgently resolved.

A recommendation that the systems implementation be delayed, and possibly amended to make smaller companies exempt, is reportedly being considered by the Government.

Heather ODriscoll, managing partner at Hartlepool-based Waltons Clark Whitehill, said: In the current economic climate, a delay in implementation and a reprieve for smaller businesses would be very welcome. Such a move may prove a boost to business confidence in the short term.

However, a delay in announcing whether this is going to happen will be most unwelcome.

Auto-enrolment, which is due to be implemented in phases, starting in 2012, is one of the biggest changes to the pensions system for decades.

Heather said: It is vital that any uncertainty is ironed out as soon as possible because, while exemptions and a delay would be very helpful, the business community needs to have a clear path laid out so that it can prepare for the future.