Avon Pension Fund members narrowly back defence sector investment
Published: October 10, 2025
Avon Pension Fund members expressed a preference for it to continue investing in the aerospace and defence sector.
These findings come as a result of a recent survey published by the fund on the topic, with members also given the opportunity to respond on important factors such as financial returns, NATO defence, and investing in companies which supply countries involved in conflict.
Of the 26,360 members who were invited to respond to the questionnaire, they received 2,500 responses. Overall, 47% of members expressed a preference for the fund continuing to invest in the aerospace and defence sector, while 42% said they’d rather it ceased investing in the sector.
Broken down, males and members aged over 55 tended to prefer continuing investment in the sector, whereas females and members aged under 55 preferred ceasing investment in the sector.
Additionally, most members expressed concern about the harm caused to civilians and the environmental impact of the aerospace and defence sector.
Avon Pension Fund chair councillor Toby Simon said: “We are very pleased with the response rate, with 2,500 members having shared their view, along with the engagement we have had from members, on what is a difficult issue.
“At its next meeting, the Committee will make a final decision on whether the fund should continue investing in aerospace and defence.
“The survey is a valuable input into the Committee’s decision-making and will be considered alongside other important factors, including legal and financial considerations.”
