FDA calls off pensions strike - 21 March 2005

The FDA today called off its planned 23 March strike after receiving assurances that genuine negotiations would take place over the Government's proposed changes to Civil Service Pension schemes. The assurances that the union had been seeking came in a letter to the TUC from Alan Johnson, Secretary of State for work and pensions, which stated that "all aspects of the Government's proposals will be open to discussion and negotiation".

Jonathan Baume, general secretary of the FDA, said:

"We welcome the Government's promise of a 'fresh start' in negotiations which is is a significant change of direction. Clearly any change to the hard-earned retirements of civil servants must be a subject for genuine negotiation and debate. We are now assured that the Government realises the importance of getting these changes right. We look forward to beginning meaningful dialogue on how best to ensure the fairness and sustainability of public sector pension schemes."

Notes for Editors
1. The FDA is the trade union and professional body representing the UK's 13,000 senior civil and public servants. Our members include policy advisors, senior managers, tax inspectors, economists, statisticians, accountants, special advisers, government lawyers, diplomats, crown prosecutors and NHS managers.

2. The FDA should be referred to simply as 'The FDA' and can be described as 'the senior civil and public servants' union' or something similar. We hope you will avoid calling us the 'First Division Association' as this is not our name and causes all sorts of confusion with football clubs and the like. Thank you!

3. For further information contact: