18.04.11
NHS staff to strike on May 10
NHS staff and civil servants have planned another strike against proposed changes to pensions. The unions Unite and PCS are set to take a day of industrial action on May 10.
Unite’s members voted by more than 9 to 1 to reject the pensions reforms, which they argue will mean they must pay more and work longer for less. The Government maintains that changes are necessary in order to support an ageing population.
Unite’s Rachael Maskell said: “This disgraceful attack comes against a backdrop of pay freezes and the threat of regional pay in the public sector.”
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “The ongoing programme of industrial action with other unions we have agreed sends a clear message to government ministers that we do not accept their unnecessary plans to force public servants to pay more and work longer for less in retirement.”
Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude said: “We would urge the PCS to reconsider their position, as this strike will not now get its members any further forward.
“Last month we set out our final proposed agreement on pension reform following over a year of constructive discussions with trades unions.
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