Labour Court recommends union accept Sugar Distributors pension proposals

The Labour Court recommended that the Services Industrial Professional Technical Union accept Sugar Distributors Ltd’s final proposals for an improved pension scheme for 27 drivers and helpers, subject to further negotiations and an investigation into whether the new terms could be optional for existing staff. The recommendation was signed on 15 December 1995. The existing pension after 40 years’ service was £55 a week, with a £4 weekly worker contribution. The company offered a £105 weekly pension after 40 years; workers with less than 40 years’ service would contribute £17.50 a week. The union rejected the offer as poor value, particularly for younger drivers, and said the contribution was excessive. The Court said the company’s approach was the only feasible way forward.