WORKERS have criticised the Church of Scotland over an "intimidating and threatening" call to sign up to pension contribution changes or face being sacked and re-employed under new conditions.

Unite the Union said staff believed their jobs were at risk when they received a letter about pension cuts that warned if they do not agree to the changes they would be would be fired and re-hired on new contracts at the end of the year.

The Kirk said it was adhering to requirements and the only changes would relate to pension contributions, but workers were upset by the letter that was described as heavy-handed and unnecessary and some said they still fear for their jobs.

Staff who attended a Unite meeting at the Church's administrative headquarters in Edinburgh on Friday were said to be realistic about the cuts but had been shocked by the tone of the letter telling them they had no choice but to agree to the Church's changes. Unite is to write to the Kirk asking that it outlines its position. Gillian McKay, of Unite, said: "Some people thought they wouldn't have a job after January 1. They are afraid of the repercussions if they do not sign."

The Church's offer of 11.5% without employee contributions was said to be considered a good deal by staff. A Church spokesman said that Unite was the recognised union but did not represent the majority of its staff. He said: "It would be inappropriate to comment or respond to any points."