Remploy workers 'face pensions cut'

Disabled workers moving to a private employer after their factories close will receive worse pensions, unions have claimed.

Unite and the GMB accused the Government of "turning the screws" on Remploy workers who are set to lose their jobs.

Workers transferring to a private employer will not get the same level of pension as they currently receive, it was claimed.

Unite regional officer Kevin Hepworth said: "This is a bombshell for those workers at Remploy factories that will be sold off. This is a cruel blow, hacking away at the retirement incomes of workers with disabilities.

"First of all, their pensions will be attacked and then it will be the pay, and terms and conditions - this is the hard reality of this government's actions."

The government has announced plans to close 27 factories by the end of the year, with a further nine facing an uncertain future, and 18 sites due to close or be sold-off next year.

Remploy workers have held two 24-hour strikes in protest at the factory closures.

Phil Davies, national officer of the GMB said: "We are now asking the Remploy workers to discuss the next stage in the campaign which could include demonstrations in London and other cities in September."

Unite has praised the Welsh Government after it pledged £2.4 million for employers who give jobs to Remploy workers when factories in Wales close.