One in six MPs call for halt to public sector pension cuts

More than 100 MPs - almost a sixth - have signed an early day motion (EDM) calling on the government to reconsider its proposed changes to public sector pensions.

The 101st MP signed the motion today as unions and ministers meet this afternoon for another round of negotiations over the cuts.

Public sector workers face reforms that could include an average 3% rise in employee contributions, later retirement dates, and an end to final salary pension arrangements.

The EDM, signed by MPs from the Labour, Social Democratic and Scottish National parties and Plaid Cymru, claimed if cuts to public sector schemes are too harsh the schemes will become unsustainable.

"Increasing contributions and reducing the value of pensions could result in significant numbers of scheme members opting out, which will leave many without adequate pensions provision," the motion said.

"In the case of the local government pension scheme this will have significant consequences for investment capacity within the economy."

Despite the reports about gold-plated pensions, most public sector employees retire with fairly modest pensions, he said.

The motion added that all parties recognise the need for reform to make public sector pensions sustainable for the long term, but said "the goal of maintaining schemes is being jeopardised by the need for short-term savings".

Union officials have been given a deadline for 3pm today to accept the government's latest reform offer or risk being excluded from any future negotiations.