SCOTTISH teachers have given overwhelming support to the prospect of industrial action over changes to their pensions.

More than 90% of the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) members who voted in the consultative ballot backed taking action should talks with the Scottish Government fail to reach agreement.

However, before any industrial action takes place the EIS would have to conduct a formal ballot on strike action.

Teachers pay contributions of 6.4% of their salary to pensions but, under the proposals, staff on more than £15,000 a year would pay more.

However, it is the impact on school staff of having to work until they are 68 or later before receiving their full pension that has sparked the current row – with the EIS arguing it is inconceivable staff should be in the classroom as they approach 70.

The proposal is contained in the UK-wide Public Service Pension Bill, which links the retirement age of teachers to state pension age.

Leaders of other public sector staff, such as civil servants and doctors, have also pledged to campaign against the changes, along with teachers in England.

EIS general secretary Larry Flanagan said: “EIS members have given their overwhelming support to the principle of further industrial action in defence of their pensions.”

However, the Scottish Government said it had been forced to change pensions because of decisions at Westminster.

“We are required by the UK Government to implement the increases and, were we not to do so, HM Treasury would reduce the Scottish budget by an estimated £35 million every year for teachers’ pensions alone,” said a spokesman.

“We have been fully engaged in discussions with the teaching unions and recognise their concerns. We hope the EIS will continue their participation in the negotiation process but do not think that industrial action is in the best interests of pupils or parents.”