Priti speaks out against strike action (From Braintree and Witham Times)

Whilst I agree with the point Priti is trying to make in that statement, it is rather rich coming from someone who will have a gold plated pension, earns over £50k PA (as far as I know, the salary for an MP is over £60k PA if I am correct) and won't be struggling in later life due to the government cutting back on the provisions that people have paid their taxes for.

I don't agree with strike action when it inconveniences the wider public, nor do I believe the public sector realise just how well off they actually are compared to the private sector, but in the times we are in at the moment there is very little other way (besides a complete mass revolution) to make a point heard, and we should not let our government or those with all the money tell those who work hard for a living, pay their taxes, and act like good little serfs, that they should expect to work longer, pay more tax, and get less in return for said taxes whilst the same wealthy people carry on with their lives of luxury.

I couldn't agree with ravenmorpheus more. Those that are imposing these cuts will in no way be effected by them yet happy to trample over the rest of us without listening. How about a wage, pensions and expenses cut for MPs and the house Lords, that would make it all seem fairer. But as usual the rich get richer and the average man suffers.

I agree with you too, Raven. It is very hypocritical of the Government (and private sector bosses) to expect the workers to accept less when they make no change to their own situation. But teachers striking is wrong and sets a terrible example. Public sector workers should take a long hard look at what they do get - good salaries, perks, very lenient sickness absence and excellent pensions already, when the private sector is lagging behind but still expected to pay for the inflated pensions of the teachers et al. The unions are trying to hide from this fact by saying that the Government should improve private sector pensions, not expect the teachers to pay more into their own plans. The Government is introducing employer contributions but this is being phased in and won't be anywhere near the public sector level. I really do think shame on all the striking teachers today - you are a disgrace.

Hmm. I think it's a bit harsh to call them a disgrace when all they are doing is trying to preserve their current remuneration levels and ensure that future generations of public sector workers don't get shafted in the same way private sector workers do.

Although whilst I don't agree with the strikes (as I said above), I do respect those striking for doing so, at least they have the courage to stand up for what they believe in, rather than capitulating and saying to themselves "I'm alright jack!", and it is the only way to get the message through.

A days lost education is nothing compared to losing future teachers because the pay, working conditions and pensions are so poor no-one wants to be a teacher...

It's just a shame that private sector workers don't have the balls to stand up to their employers en-masse and say enough is enough!