In local government, discussions have been taking place between UNISON, GMB, UNITE and the Local Government Association over a set of principles and a timetable for negotiations over short term savings and the new LGPS which the government wants to be in place from 2015.

The discussions have not touched on the detail of a possible solution, but we believe will lay a positive framework for negotiations, starting in January.

Although discussions between ourselves and the LGA over the principles and timetable have reached a possible conclusion, the outcomes have not yet been given the ‘green light’ by Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State, and we are not therefore in a position to make them public.

It seems likely that – if ratified – they will be announced on Tuesday and we are in the process of agreeing joint wording with the LGA for their release.

I realise that rumours have been circulating and I wanted to reassure you that no decisions have been taken over the details surrounding contribution increases or the future look of the LGPS.

However, I believe that – if agreed – the principles under discussion will provide a very positive framework for negotiations and potentially could lead to no change until 2014. We will circulate the details as soon as the Secretary of State has given his approval.

In health, negotiations are continuing between all the health unions, the NHS employers and the Department of Health. Although there has been some progress, particularly around contribution increases in year one, as you may have seen reported, there are still key issues under discussion.

UNISON’s service group executives will be meeting on 10 January to consider progress on all negotiations and any agreement with the LGA, if ratified.

In the meantime, keep checking our website for up-to-date information: unison.org.uk