31 October 2007
Unions representing BAA workers at seven UK airports have called
a ballot on industrial action over BAA's plans to close its final
salary scheme to new members from the beginning of December.
In response, BAA has defended the move to close the scheme to
new members by saying it would protect the company and pensioners
from stock market volatility and by claiming that alternative money
purchase schemes would provide more certainty over the level of
contributions.
Employees at BAA are concerned that the proposals are just the
tip of the iceberg and that the future of the final salary scheme
is in jeopardy.
The result of the ballot is expected by the end of November and
if a strike does go ahead, it could cause chaos for passengers in
the run up to Christmas.
