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Public Sector strikes go ahead

Strikes are taking place across the public sector today, forcing thousands of school, job centres and courts to close.

The BBC reports that the Public and Commercial Services Union and three teaching unions are expected to form picket lines over proposed pension changes.

While the Unions assert that the changes would force them to work longer and for a reduced pension, the government believe that the plans make it fairer for taxpayers.

The government has estimated that around 1 in 5 public sector workers will strike today and that the “vast majority” of public sector services would be open as usual.

While the strike action is in its early stages, director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, David Frost has noted that this could have a detrimental effect on business.

Speaking to the BBC he said: “If the UK is perceived as a country where we have a lot of public sector strikes, then I think that investor confidence, perhaps in putting new business into the UK could be hit.”

Politicians from all parties have condemned the unions choosing to strike today, but behind the scenes, other unions not involved in strike action continue to negotiate with the government – a move which could prove to be crucial if both sides are to come to an agreement.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .