Anotherthing: I applaud your clear understanding of the issues under debate here. I have to take issue with you on one point however, I have been in NATS and its predecessors for nearly 37 years and I cannot remember a time when controllers were "grossly underpaid". When compared to other sections of the coalface, controllers have always been well rewarded.
On other issues: A pay rise of RPI+1% will still produce a substantial rise for those controllers whose salaries are nearer the top of their 13-step pay scale. How would a compression of the pay scales sound - a higher percentage sliding rise for the bottom of the scales?
On pensions, a radical idea could be to cap the maximum pension payable, index linked in the same way as at present, to say £35k p.a. This would limit future liabilities.
As for NATS saving money by not having away days and feel-good presentations, why oh why has the ATCO Towers accommodation (sleeping) block been built at great expense at Swanwick?
I would love to see a work to rule by ATCO's - you would not get in the car park when they all have to turn up for work!!
Don't get me started on the AAVA's !!!!!