For each of the following, indicate whether the item would increase pension expense for the current year, decrease pension expense for the current year, or have no effect on pension expense for the current year. Assume a defined benefit pension plan, and that ASPE is followed. (a) The discount rate is applied to plan assets. No Effect (b) Past service costs granted during the year. Increase (c) Benefits paid to retired employees. Increase (d) Current statistics used by the actuary indicate more employees are retiring at an earlier age and are living longer. No Effect