Many Prospect members will have received a message inviting them to join PCS this week. That message contained some assertions that need to be corrected.

First, on the changes to the Civil Service Compensation Scheme, you will know already that Prospect led the way in negotiations that improved on the Cabinet Office's original proposal and reinforced protections against compulsory redundancies. PCS refused to be a part of those negotiations, preferring to shout on the sidelines. Prospect believes that a union's duty to its members is to engage constructively with employers to deliver the best achievable results, even under difficult circumstances.

Second, progress on challenging the indefensible Performance Management system was achieved thanks to Prospect's insistence on evidence-based dialogue with MoD. That battle is not yet won and it is essential that all the unions continue to press MoD, and indeed the Cabinet Office for a better system.

Likewise, on MoD's Estates Strategy and potential SDSR staff cuts, Prospect's approach is to challenge constructively, secure fair treatment and, where necessary, build positive relationships with new employers, rather than demoralising members by scaremongering. Please follow the link to the latest MoDEYE newsletter, at the bottom of this message, for an update on how Prospect is working for you in MoD.

All the unions get staff data from MoD to use for recruitment, and Prospect also sends recruitment emails from time to time. The difference is that we do everything possible to ensure that we email to staff in grades and functions that are proper to Prospect. It is disappointing that, on this occasion, PCS has not done likewise.

If you have colleagues who have not joined Prospect yet, please share this mailing with them and encourage them to sign up at www.prospect.org.uk/joinus.

Direct Download: MoDEYE - Autumn 2016