Unite union calls strike vote on Barclays’ move to close final salary pension plan

Union sets strike vote on Barclays pension closure

LONDON — Britain’s Unite union said Friday it will ask members to vote next month on whether to strike against Barclays Bank because of the proposed closure of a final salary pension plan.

The union, which represents 25,000 employees of the bank, said walkouts would be staged in September if members approve the strike call.

“Unite has proposed viable alternatives to Barclays in order to make the cost savings they argue are essential for the pension scheme to be viable,” said Derek Simpson, the union’s joint general secretary. “The company has failed to engage with the union on these suggestions.”

Barclays announced in June that it wanted to close the final salary plan, a cost-saving move that would affect more than 18,000 employees.

In a statement, the bank accused the union of walking away from discussions.

“Barclays stands by the security of pension benefits already built up by employees and is committed to ensuring that pension provision is sustainable, equitable and affordable,” the statement said.