The dramatic climbdown has already begun - brace yourselfs.
From the Pensions Ballot Result circular:
Pay 2009
You will be aware that the NTUS submitted a core claim in September 2008 which included a claim for an overal increase for all staff of RPI+1%. We met with NATS on the 18th December 2008 where Management outlibned the difficult economic climate that currently surrounds us. Needless to say there is a significant gap between our positions. Our objective is to conclude negotiations as soon as possible in the New Year. Further meetings have been scheduled for Jan and Feb.
This is shaping up to be a difficult negotiation as we seek to protect and enhance members' standard of living. We will update you as soon as we are in a position to do so.
Not a very robust stance to take from the outset - expect a poor pay award.
Also, am I alone in thinking that it is a little bit out of order that we were balloted on the Pension proposals when the MOU has not even been agreed yet? We have now accepted the changes - the MOU could now be written to give us yet another shafting, especially as management will harp on about the downturn in the economy, despite our money spining transatlantic flights actually growing in number...