BT considering closing defined-benefit pensions scheme for existing staff

Move by telecoms group follows similar, but more advanced, proposal by Royal Mail Group that has led to strike action threat BT is considering closing its defined-benefit pension scheme, the latest former state-owned business to close - or move to close - so-called "gold-plated" retirement plans for existing employees. It comes as the telecoms group prepares to enter negotiations with pension trustees about the future funding of the scheme from next month.