UP TO 6,000 Hampshire members of the public services union UNISON could down tools and support strike action over pension changes.

The industrial action - which would be held in the week starting March 21 - could cripple the county as it hits schools, housing, social and environmental services.

UNISON members across the county, including those at Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, Southampton Institute and Southampton City College, were asked if they would support industrial action over changes to their pension schemes.

The result came back 790 to 139 in favour in Southampton and countywide the results were about four to one in favour.

The pension changes will be made to the Local Government Superannuation Scheme, which the government intends introducing on April 1.

Hampshire members are angry at plans to increase the general retirement age for

workers to 65 and increase the minimum retirement age to 55.

Julie Murdoch, UNISON branch secretary at Hampshire County Council, said: "The strike is going to affect all branches across the

county, and if it hits the county council it will have a big impact. Our members voted four to one and we have been discussing the results with members in other branches."

After the initial result proved favourable a further ballot will be held on February 14

Barry Olson, UNISON deputy branch secretary for Southampton, said: "If there was a 'Yes' vote, City Council services will be shut down and the impact will be widespread."

The result of the ballot is expected on

March 9 and a decision will then be made whether to proceed with strike action.

Mike Tucker, UNISON branch secretary for Southampton, said: "UNISON members are angry that the government is pushing through changes to our pension scheme. They have refused to listen to our concerns and are introducing radical changes that come into effect in two months' time.

"Southampton UNISON members have voted by more than four to one to support strike action. This determination to take action will now be translated into a 'Yes' vote in the strike ballot which starts on February 14."