chargeable gains on non-qualifying life assurance policy

If I surrender my policy and get substantial gains, do I still need to pay income tax if I transfer all the money to another saving scheme, rather than use it as "free income".

Hi,

Yes, you may have Income Tax to pay on the gains arising from the surrendered policy, even if you transfer the remainder into another saving scheme. For UK policies, there will be a notional tax, equivalent to the basic rate, that may offset any further tax liability. If the gain is over £10000.00, you will need to report the gain in a Self Assessment Tax Return.  

Have a look at HS320.

HS320 Gains on UK life insurance policies (2023)

Thank you.