Local government unions have issued a joint statement on discussions on a new set of principles and timetable for detailed negotiations on pensions. 

Any outcomes will need to be ratified by the Secretary of State, but if agreed, the unions believe they "lay a positive framework" for full negotiations to start in January. 

The statement stresses that no decisions have been taken over details surrounding contribution increases or the future look of the local government pension scheme. 

Further details will be announced as soon as they are available. 

See the full joint union statement here: 
Local government pensions joint union statement - PDF