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Ministers Weigh Law Change After Failing So Far to Strip Couzens of Civil Nuclear Police Pension

The unresolved CNC entitlement sits outside standard police pension rules, prompting DESNZ to vow to block any payout.

Overview

  • The government confirms a complex legal process is under way on the CNC portion, with new legislation under consideration if required.
  • In 2023 Sadiq Khan secured forfeiture of any Metropolitan Police pension, which was understood to be negligible given Couzens’ brief service there.
  • The Civil Nuclear Constabulary says it recommended forfeiture but has no power to decide, with the UK Atomic Energy Authority acting as the pension authority under DESNZ oversight.
  • Freedom of information data show no CNC pension forfeitures between 2020 and September 2025.
  • Experts note forfeiture can return an officer’s own contributions, payments are typically suspended during imprisonment, and survivor benefits of up to 50% may still apply.