FBU calls for wealth tax as firefighters face more pension cuts

Steve Wright said: "The FBU will fiercely resist any attempt to attack the pensions of firefighters and other public sector workers.”
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The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised proposals to cut public sector pensions, calling it a “false trade off driven by austerity.”

According to reports from the Telegraph, British civil servant Catherine Little, permanent secretary to the cabinet office, has been leading talks in Whitehall about reducing pensions for nurses, teachers, firefighters and other public sector workers in return for pay negotiations.

Firefighters have already seen their pensions downgraded in the past decade and are now required to work until the age of 60 in a physically demanding job. 

The union wants a wealth tax to pay for wage increases and public services instead.

Steve Wright, general secretary at The FBU, said: “Since 2010, public sector pay and pensions have been hammered by austerity. 

“Firefighters are already being forced to work to 60, for a downgraded pension, and on around 12% less pay in real terms.

“It would be outrageous to raid our pensions again, and the FBU will fiercely resist any attempt to attack the pensions of firefighters and other public sector workers.”

Wright added: “Workers will not accept a false trade-off driven by austerity.

“The Labour Government must urgently introduce a wealth tax to properly fund public services and provide a substantial pay increase for all workers. 

“That is the only way to drive up growth and living standards.”

Marvin Onumonu

Marvin Onumonu is a Reporter for Workplace Journal and The Intermediary

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