Threat of Royal Mail strike over pension changes

Royal Mail workers will be balloted over changes to their final salary pension scheme, the results of which could lead to strike action.

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) will ballot Royal Mail workers over Royal Mail's intention to press ahead with a reform to the pension scheme that had not been agreed with the union.

In October, Royal Mail decided that a career average defined benefit scheme would be introduced for existing employees from 1 April 2008, to replace the organisation's final salary scheme. The group's pension pots, built up before 1 April 2008, would be protected, including keeping a link to final salary. (See Royal Mail agrees pensions and pay offer.)

A statement from the CWU said: "The ballot result will be announced on Tuesday 1st April when the union's executive will also be meeting to consider the next steps."