Commenting on chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves’ Mansion House speech this evening, UNISON assistant general secretary Jon Richards said today (Thursday):
“The government is right to focus on driving fairer economic growth across the UK. When it comes to proposed changes to the local government pension scheme (LGPS), the devil will be in the detail.
“It’s crucial the voices of scheme members – including council workers, school support staff and many others delivering public services – are central to any changes.
“Scheme members currently make up half of LGPS boards. A good level of accountability must be built into future governance arrangements.
“The LGPS exists to deliver the pensions promised to public sector employees. Any reforms must put their interests first, ensuring they have a decent income in retirement.
“Future LGPS investment decisions should be taken by independent accountable bodies focused on transparency and cost-effectiveness. That would deliver the chancellor’s plan to boost growth while ensuring the returns needed to fund people’s pensions.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk
