Despite claiming that its consultation has been “extensive”, Royal Mail’s proposals remain the same as when they began. Royal Mail Group does not understand the meaning of consultation. As with the Post Office closure programme they have turned a blind eye to suggestions by all parties and plan to plough ahead with their pre-planned agenda regardless of viable alternatives and the wishes of their staff.

Dave Ward, deputy general secretary, said: “To date there has been no agreement on pensions between CWU and Royal Mail. In talks facilitated by Brendan Barber it was made clear that the issues of pay and pensions were decoupled. Royal Mail fully signed up to the separation of the issues.”

Royal Mail and CWU agreed a joint statement prior to the consultation process that allowed for input from all parties.  As part of this process, Royal Mail assured workers that these were not the final proposals. On the basis of the company’s final decision CWU are now balloting all members in Royal Mail Group and expect the company to listen to those views.

CWU has supported the consultation but is disappointed with the lack of democratic participation and transparency and ultimately the high-handed cynicism of the business in the way it has run the process.

CWU is conducting a consultative ballot of all members affected by the pension proposals. The ballot opens on 10th March, closes on 25th and the result will be announced on 26th March. CWU is recommending that members reject the business’s proposed changes.