I'm on holiday, so may be prone to optimism, but it strikes me that the bad news on pensions in the private sector (http://wricommission.org.uk/wric/private-sector-needs-better-value-for-money-from-its-pensions) presents an opportunity in more ways than one.
Of course it's right to point out that the real problem with pensions in this country is in the private sector (http://www.unison.org.uk/asppresspack/pressrelease_view.asp?id=2392) - just as the real pensions divide is not between public and private but between rich and poor.
But isn't this also now the time to do what I've wondered about before (http://jonrogers1963.blogspot.com/2010/04/son-of-frs17-and-lgps.html) turn Hutton on his head and - instead of excluding private sector workers from public sector pension schemes - open up admitted body status in the LGPS to any solvent employer willing to pay their way?
The fight to defend our pensions is inevitably a defensive battle - but we need an alternative vision for a better pensions future, and the stable, viable, funded LGPS might just be the basis for that.
Or maybe I'm just under the influence of too much fresh air, sunshine and Crazy Golf...
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Hi Jon,
Can you make your readers aware of this campaign abouot the possible closure of the O'oclock clubs?
As you know this is a valuable service provided by Lambeth Council to parents with young children and it is very popular.
Lambeth Council seems obsessed however with the idea of reducing or getting rid of the service all together. The vast majority of those who work there are part time women who are very dedicated to what they do.
There will be a meeting on Tuesday 6 September in Lambeth Town Hall to discuss the future of the service and all are invited to turn up to support the fight against the cuts! Please try and get as many people there!
Nick
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