Public and Commercial Services Union

Present

24 February 2010

J Atkinson, D Bean, L Bevan, G Binks, S Boniface, J Brooke, N Buller, C Coldbeck, J Coote, T Coxon, J Davidson, K Eaton, D Ebanks, C Edwards, K Fairless, P Harrington, J Hogg, S Ion, B Lawn, M Leopard, M Lewis, P Lockhart, D Luxford, A Mason, M McCabe, D McFadden, H McFarlane, K McHugh, A McLean, M Menear, L Merry, M Owens, L Priestley, M Rathbone, Steve Ryan, K Slough, K Taylor, L Thomas, P Tillyer, R Tyrrell, T Walsh, H Watkins, H Wesley.

Visitors: B Sneddon, C Herbert, T Edwards, P Windsor, M Doolin.

25 February 2010

D Bean, L Bevan, G Binks, S Boniface, J Brooke, N Buller, C Coldbeck, J Coote, T Coxon, C. Craig, J Davidson, H Drummond, K Eaton, D Ebanks, C Edwards, K Fairless, P Harrington, J Hogg, S Ion, B Lawn, M Leopard, M Lewis, P Lockhart, D Luxford, A Mason, M McCabe, D McFadden, H McFarlane, K McHugh, A McLean, M Menear, L Merry, M Owens, L Priestley, M Rathbone, S Ryan, K Slough, K Taylor, L Thomas, P Tillyer, R Tyrrell, T Walsh, H Watkins, H Wesley.

Visitors: B Sneddon, C Herbert, T Edwards, P Windsor, M Doolin.

1. Apologies

24 February: H Drummond, Jackie McWilliams, Lynda Priestley, F Staff.

25 February: J Atkinson, Jackie McWilliams, Lynda Priestley, F Staff.

2. Opening remarks

The president opened the meeting and welcomed everyone present to the meeting. He also stated that due to a number of AGMs that are being held at this time, a number of GEC members had tendered their apologies of being late for the meeting but would be present in the afternoon.

He thanked GEC members for making the earlier start and stated that the meeting will finish before 3 p.m. on the Thursday. He also conveyed the NEC’s appreciation to the committee for agreeing to the change in times to their meeting in order that the NEC may be able to meet to discuss the results of the recent ballot and to take advice on the CSCS issues.

The president also welcomed representatives from the advisory committees and informed them that they were welcomed to address the GEC and join in on the discussions but will not be able to vote.

The president then welcomed Catherine Craig, who will be taking over from Andy Thomas.

The president also welcomed Nick McCarthy, the senior national officer, in charge of industrial department unit 1, which comprises the Revenue & Customs Group.

Nick McCarthy stated that he had been an activist for over 20 years and general secretary of AMO from which he came. He gave a brief overview of the senior management review and of the fact that there is a new management structure for the PCS, which included better use of resources. There has been a reduction in SNO from 19 to 11, two bargaining areas and NOs have been increased from 18 to 26 The senior managers have been meeting regularly from June 2009. There are resources in place whereby there will be industrial officers and there will be a training process, which also will include training on the commix system. NOs will be responsible for the day to day running of each of their group. There will be the tax justice campaign and a recruitment programme whereby temporary staff will fill permanent posts. He also stated that the results of the ballot regarding the CSCS is vital and quite important for PCS for a ‘yes’ vote to industrial action. He then asked for support from the GEC to this.

The president thanked Nick for coming and addressing the GEC.

3. Record of decisions of GEC meetings held on

3.1 Meeting held on 2/3 December 2009 (GEC/042/10)

The above record of decisions was noted and agreed.

3.2 Special meeting held on 26 January 2010 (GEC/034/10)

The above record of decisions was noted and agreed.

The president then asked that both sets of record of decisions be placed on the PCS website.

4. Matters arising

None

5. Financial report

5.1 Finance report

Group treasurer Brooke, apologised for not producing a paper on the accounts and gave a verbal report on the current financial position. She stated that the final accounts showed an underspend of £42,000, which was as a result of new procedures in place, such as reduction in signatories and AGSs better aware of their budgets. There were still some December claims coming in, which will be offset against 2010.

The GEC agreed that the group treasurer could clear the audited accounts at the finance committee without bringing it back to the GEC.

The report was noted.

6. Progress report

6.1 Pay

6.1.1. HMRC pay (GEC/062/10)

Group secretary Lockhart presented the paper and updated the committee on the current pay position. There had been a number of meetings and another was scheduled for 3 March and, there were still a number of outstanding items to be dealt with.

At this point, the group secretary informed the committee that negotiations officer, Andy Thomas had moved over to take up a position as group secretary for the Met Police and that Catherine Craig will take over from Andy. Catherine will be sharing the duties of pay with Jason Hogg.

The group secretary asked that the committee agree the recommendations and the proposed motion to conference.

The report was noted.

Recommendations

1. That the GEC note this pay strategy update;

2. That the attached pay motion is submitted in the name of the GEC

The recommendations were agreed.

2010 Conference motion - pay

That this GDC condemns the move made by HMRC on 10 September 2009 to force PCS into the position of having to accept the pay award on offer for 2009/10 and 2010/11 or risk having that offer withdrawn. Conference notes that such a threat remains unprecedented across the civil service and by so doing HMRC further damaged the goodwill that exists amongst its own staff at a time when it should be particularly conscious of raising morale and rewarding loyal, hardworking staff.

Conference further condemns the failure of the department to mount a serious bid for additional funding under the efficiencies/remit guidance and regards this as a further missed opportunity which the department should have taken to demonstrate its commitment to its own staff.

Conference regards the implementation of the pay award for the period 2008-2011 to run directly contrary to the guarantees of pay progression in minimum periods given as part of the previous pay agreement, and therefore that HMRC has chosen to break the fundamental commitment which encouraged many members to accept the previous agreement.

Conference condemns the use of the top bonus system for rewarding staff, believing that PCS members would rather see a pay system based on fairness and transparency rather than founded on demonstrable inequity and unfairness.

Conference notes that the next round of formal pay negotiations is due to commence in readiness for a settlement for 2011/12 but that a number of outstanding issues need to be addressed for 2010/11.

Conference therefore instructs the incoming GEC:

• to continue to pursue a claim through the equalities and human rights commission which seeks to challenge the use of the department’s bonus system on the grounds that it is demonstrably inequitable;
• to engage with the department to reach agreement on a fair distribution of bonus awards for 2010/11;
• to consult widely with members during 2010 in readiness for the submission of a pay claim in early 2011, and in order to reach agreement on pay in readiness for the 1 June 2011 settlement date;
• that, notwithstanding the view of branches and members on the content of the 2011/12 pay claim, the claim should explicitly challenge the department to abandon performance pay and instead to consolidate all such monies into consolidated increases for all staff;
• that the pay claim for 2011/12 should focus on spot rates of pay for AA-AO and ensure progression from the minimum to the maximum of pay scales in a maximum of four years for O and above;
• that pay rises for staff on the maxima of pay scales reflect the true cost of living;
• that continued increases to inflation are used as a lever to highlight the palpable inadequacies of the current pay settlement;
• that the pay claim for 2011/2012 should re-state PCS’ demand that any final pay agreement be subject to being re-opened in light of increases in inflation which exceed the value of the offer for the majority of PCS members;
• that any claim is based on a one-year period.

The proposed motion to conference was agreed.
6.1.2 Legacy pay issues (GEC/074/10)

Deputy group secretary Boniface presented the paper and highlighted the issues listed in the letter to him from Lesley Miles, and asked that the GEC agree the recommendations set out therein.

Recommendations

1. We agree to the proposal for members in group 1 to volunteer but not the intention to compulsory transfer staff who don’t volunteer after the opt-out award on 1 June.
    
2. We note the proposals for members in groups 2 and 3.
    
3. In all cases we only note compulsion subject to the protection offered by the paragraph; ‘If at a later date it is subsequently found that someone had a reserved right we will honour this and return payment to the point where the person moved across to HMRC terms’ if it is amended.
   
   This paragraph needs amending to also reflect any increases that may have been due to the legacy pay they are returned to from the date that the individual was moved on to HMRC terms.
    
4. We reject the group 4 proposal but request that it be revisited in the light of discussion on pay for 2011.
    
5. We look forward to receiving detailed proposals relating to our members on IT allowances and will fully consult these members before responding to those proposals.
    
6. If HMRC determines that they can compulsorily transfer any staff to HMRC terms without detriment then they should do so at a date that would provide most benefit and we would note this.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.1.3 VOA pay - update (GEC/VOAC/008/10)

Deputy president Binks presented the paper and updated the GEC on the current position of the VO pay. Deputy president Binks informed the GEC that the VOAC had held workshops to deal with pay, cuts and CSCS and decided to submit the VO pay claim early the following week. There were still 22 age related cases in the VO that are outstanding.

Deputy president Binks then asked that the GEC endorsed the decisions made by the VOAC and to submit their pay motion to conference.

This was endorsed and agreed.

6.2 Campaigns

6.2.1 Workforce change - office closures/jobs campaign update (GEC/060/10 & GEC/067/10)

Group secretary Lockhart presented the papers and updated the GEC. He highlighted Richard Murphy’s report and asked for GEC’s comments to be sent by e-mail to negotiations officer Ebanks and asked that the recommendations be agreed.

Recommendations

1. That the GEC notes this update as a supplement to GEC/019/10;
    
2. That further support is given to branches dealing with individual redeployment/job option interviews, including a review of the numbers of surplus staff remaining in key offices after 26 February, and this activity is coordinated through the WFC negotiating team and the campaigns committee as appropriate;
    
3. That the GEC agrees the GECLO and campaigns committee allocations to branches at attachment 2, and instructs GECLOs and named campaigns committee members to carry out an ‘audit’ in order that resources can be devoted to branches which may be losing key activists after 31 March, including through bespoke training courses for new activists and reps;
    
4. That the WFC negotiating team and the campaigns committee meet jointly and promptly to consider in detail further aspects of the campaigning and industrial strategy as a prepared response to the department’s ‘phase 3’ announcements, to include consideration of a further submission to the NDC, which includes a plan of action to protect members’ existing working conditions if suitable agreements and specific assurances for members cannot be reached through negotiation;
    
5. That the GEC agrees to reconvene immediately to consider its response in light of any further announcements as part of the departmental job cuts programme and/or under ‘phase 3’ of the current WFC process;
    
6. That a further report on the specific likelihood of compulsory redundancies and/or compulsory moves beyond RDT is received at the next scheduled meeting of the GEC in April, and that in any event the national disputes committee is advised of the status of our currently logged submission in light of any developments in this regard and the need therefore to move to an industrial action ballot.
    
7. That GEC members are reminded to canvass members in line with GEC/019/10 and GEC/030/10 in order to establish support for a further industrial action ballot over future job cuts.
    
8. That the campaigns committee is convened immediately following the meeting with Bernadette Kenny on 4 March and in light of any other business based meeting, to consider a submission to the national disputes committee over job cuts arising as a result of the budgetary constraints announced at any business meetings or any subsequent announcement from HMRC.

The recommendations were agreed.

It was further recommended:

That the motion is submitted in the name of the GEC.

That this GDC condemns in the strongest possible terms the decision taken by HMRC to announce the formal closure of 127 offices with the subsequent loss of over 1600 further jobs. Conference confirms its categorical opposition to HMRC’s job cuts and office closure programme, believing that the job cuts programme is politically motivated, based on arbitrary and ultimately unworkable assumptions.

Conference applauds the work of local branch representatives and activists in supporting PCS members through the recent job cuts and office closure programme announcements and its aftermath, recognising the unstinting support which members at all levels have given to local and national campaigning efforts over a sustained period to save jobs and offices.

Conference believes that HMRC is failing to deliver a consistently reliable public service. Nobody outside the government believes that HMRC is now able to deliver a demonstrably better public service with fewer and fewer resources. Academics, tax professionals and members of the tax-paying public have formed the view that HMRC has embarked on an ill-advised programme of unsustainable cuts at a time, in economic terms, when more investment in efficient tax collection is required not less. This in turn is leading to unprecedentedly low levels of staff morale. The perception of HMRC as a failing department is in nobody’s interests, least of all to PCS and its members.

Conference believes that resources should instead be invested into collecting outstanding debt, closing the tax gap, and concentrating on delivering a quality public service, rather than continuing to pursue a programme of job cuts in a period of economic recession. The programme of job cuts and office closures should be suspended, and a review of the impact of cuts to date should be undertaken.

Through a series of agreements reached in 2008 nationally and departmentally, and as a result of direct campaigning, we have so far defended members against compulsory redundancy and forced moves beyond reasonable daily travel, as well as staving off the worst effects of privatisation. In addition, the firm threat that we will engage in the immediate mobilisation of members to take action in the event of compulsory redundancies or compulsory moves beyond RDT has so far dissuaded the department from offering anything other than voluntary severance packages. Conference recognises that members were nevertheless placed in the unacceptable position where the only real choice for many was acceptance of a voluntary severance package.

There is no doubt, however, that all departments, including HMRC and the VOA, will be expected to deliver services within impossibly tight budgetary constraints. It is not unreasonable to assume that the only way in which departments would be able to do this will be through a combination of making wholesale redundancies, compulsorily moving staff to offices beyond reasonable daily travel, compelling staff to move to other government departments, and privatising large areas of work currently undertaken by HMRC.

Conference instructs the incoming group executive committee:

• To use every means available to defend members from compulsory redundancies and/or compulsory moves beyond reasonable daily travel, to include the immediate mobilisation of members, both departmentally and nationally, for strike action in the event of compulsory redundancies or compulsory moves beyond reasonable daily travel;
   
• To ensure that HMRC abide by the agreements already reached with PCS on the avoidance of compulsory redundancy and compulsory moves;
   
• To ensure that members in offices under threat of closure are not put in a position where their only choice is to accept a voluntary redundancy package.
   
• To step up and continue to work with branches to lead and coordinate campaigning efforts, in conjunction with the national union where appropriate, to halt and reverse the job cuts and office closure programme in HMRC;
   
• To continue to campaign for adequate public services and the retention of decent jobs in local communities;
   
• To continue utilising all means necessary to influence political decisions, including through representations to ministers, through regular parliamentary lobbying, by mounting demonstrations, working with the media, and through sustained political engagement at constituency level;
   
• To continue to play a major role in developing and delivering the national campaign for tax justice;
   
• To continue to issue regular briefings, including through the group magazine and website, updating and involving members in campaigning and political activity.

6.2.2 Civil service compensation scheme update (withdrawn, however, the CSCS will be discussed later on the agenda)

6.2.3 Tax justice survey (GEC/086/10)

Negotiations officer Walsh presented the paper and stated that a number of branches had not responded to the survey and he had asked GECLOs to assist in getting branches to send in their responses to Negotiations officer Ebanks, and asked that the GEC agree the recommendation therein.

Recommendation

That the GEC request the GECLOs whose branches have not yet responded to the tax justice survey advise them about the operation of the Teel and NPS in the offices they represent.

The recommendation was agreed.

6.2.4 National pensioners’ convention - pensioners’ parliament (GEC/058/10)

Assistant group secretary Fairless presented the paper and asked the GEC to agree the recommendation.

Recommendation

The GEC agrees to send two delegates to represent the group at this years pensioners parliament.

The recommendation was agreed.

6.2.5 Tax justice and jobs (GEC/088/10)

Negotiations officer Walsh presented the paper and gave an update.

The paper was noted.

6.3 HR policies

6.3.1 Unauthorised access and unacceptable usage (GEC/083/10)

Assistant group secretary Watkins presented the paper, gave the GEC an update and asked them to agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC agree that we seek legal opinion on the policies.
    
2. The GEC note the improvements made in the draft policies but agree that any warnings should be consistent and that this should taken up by the negotiators.
    
3. The GEC agree that consultation with branches should take place at a later date following further discussions with HMRC.
    
4. The GEC agree that if HMRC proceed with publication that a caveat must be attached to the policy stating that it is not yet agreed by the TUS but discussions are continuing.
    
5. An immediate branch briefing is issued stating the GEC position.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.3.2 Travel and subsistence (GEC/081/10)

Assistant group secretary Watkins presented the paper, gave the GEC an update and asked them to agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC endorse the position taken by the negotiating team.
    
2. The GEC agree that a BB is issued outlining our position with a summary of the outstanding issues.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.3.3 Remote and mobile guidance (GEC/070/10)

Assistant group secretary Leopard presented the paper and gave a brief update to the GEC. He stated that he will give a full update on negotiations at the next GEC.

The paper and report were noted.

6.3.4 Medical appointments - paper withdrawn

6.3.5 Unauthorised absence (GEC/083/10)

Assistant group secretary Watkins presented the paper, gave the GEC an update and asked them to agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC agree the policy subject to the calendar versus working days issue.
2. The GEC agree that further discussions should be pursued on
   this issue.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.3.6 Conduct (GEC/069/10)

Assistant group secretary Leopard presented and gave a brief update to the GEC.

The paper and report were noted.

6.3.7 Northern Ireland issues (GEC/066/10)

Assistant group secretary Watkins presented the paper, gave the GEC an update and asked them to agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC note the removal of the Category A travel concessions for new staff and the reserved right for existing category A staff.
    
2. The GEC note and welcome the decision by HMRC not to remove the detached duty concession for Northern Ireland staff at this time.
    
3. The GEC note and endorse the position taken by the TUS regarding Easter Tuesday and await developments.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4 Negotiating areas

6.4.1 Updated HMRC contact centres framework agreement (GEC/054/10)

Assistant group secretary Coldbeck presented the paper, gave a brief update and asked the GEC to agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

That the GEC

1. endorses the draft updated framework agreement,
2. agrees that we present this to contact centre management, seeking their agreement,
3. instructs the negotiators to bring the final product of negotiations back for their consideration and approval.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4.2 Reduced opening hours in face to face

Assistant group secretary Coldbeck gave a verbal update on the fact that there was no progress to report at present on shorter opening hours for enquiry centres/ However, she expected to hear further before the end of March and that she had a further meeting with Caroline Addison, head of face to face, which is scheduled for 25 March and would report more fully at the next meeting.
The verbal report was noted.

6.4.3 Professionalism in HMRC (GEC/57a/10)

Assistant group secretary McFadden presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that the recommendation for the motion to be agreed.

Recommendation

That the GEC submit the following motion to Revenue & Customs group conference 2010.

That this GDC notes the intention of HMRC to professionalise in all areas of its work as part of the governments’ skills agenda.

At present it is the department’s intention that everyone in HMRC will be in one of the professions.

The largest profession in the civil service and HMRC will be operational delivery. This will affect the bulk of our members as it will cover about 50,000 working in contact centres, processing and others with face to face contact with the public, for example, DMB and TEEL.

The tax profession, which includes 19,000 people, working in enforcement & compliance, benefits and credits, CAR, business taxes, LBS and criminal investigation, is well advanced. The tax professionalism team, who lead on developing the profession, has worked to involve the TUS in the introduction of the new tax professional qualifications (TPQs) and their external accreditation, along with the development of the related policies.

Conference welcomes the potential benefits and opportunities this initiative could offer our members, if properly resourced. However, conference is also aware that there are potential risks for our members in the professionalism agenda.

Conference instructs the GEC to negotiate with HMRC to ensure the following:

1. Levels of the qualifications should reflect the actual job performed.
2. The requirement to take qualifications should be voluntary not compulsory for existing post holders.
3. Any qualifications should be externally accredited and recognised.
4. There should be proper skills recognition.
5. There should be accreditation for prior learning and qualifications.
6. A comprehensive learning prospectus is provided for all jobs in HMRC.
7. All learning and qualifications should be subject to full equality impact assessments (EQIAs) to ensure no equality groups are disadvantaged.

The recommendation and motion to conference were agreed.

6.4.4 Regional postrooms - motion 103 protocol (verbal update)

Assistant group secretary Bevan gave a verbal update to the GEC.

6.4.5 Transfer of staff from Xafinity Paymaster to HMRC (GEC/028/10)

Assistant group secretary Bevan presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

For the GEC to take expert advice on issues arising from the TUPE transfer as necessary

To agree that PCS members transferring from XP to HMRC be represented by R&C South London Direct Taxes branch.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4.6 Text production - proposals from ESS (GEC/047/10)

Assistant group secretary Bevan presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendation.

Recommendation

That he arrange a meeting of representatives of the branches involved, in a location convenient for all, to brief them about ESS plans and gauge support for alternative action.

The recommendation was agreed.

6.4.7 Disabled parking update (GEC/059/10)

Assistant group secretary Bevan presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendation.

Recommendation

That this GEC is pleased to note the substantial changes which have been made to this policy as a result of consultations with the DTUS. It regrets the refusal by ESS to agree to admit evidence from the member’s own representative, but agrees the revised policy, subject to a review in September 2010 of its operation.

The recommendation was agreed.

6.4.8 ESS security guards

Assistant group secretary Bevan gave an updated to the GEC stating that two sites had withdrawn the 24 hour security guard, which should go to the N.D.C. In East Kilbride discussions are ongoing.

The report was noted.

6.4.9 Green update (GEC/048/10)

Assistant group secretary Bevan presented the paper and gave an updated to the GEC.

The report was noted and endorsed.

6.4.10 Processing (GEC/079 & 080/10)

Assistant group secretary Ryan presented the papers, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. That (subject to legal advice) a collective ET be lodged on behalf of the FTAs, on the grounds that the efficiency savings projected for 2010/11 are unachievable.
    
2. That full publicity is given to the incorrect issue of codes, highlighting that HMRC is now in serious trouble.
    
3. That the whole issue of staffing and job losses is taken to the minister in the light of the current problems and the gloomy forecast around the recession returning.
    
4. That if the response to demand for extra resource is not met, or met only with the introduction of overtime, an NDC submission be prepared to strengthen the overtime ban in Processing with a good will strike, and non co operation with anything other than normal work.

Further recommendations

That the GEC agrees that the AGSs for CCD and CustOPS should

a) oppose any moves to reduce staffing in Processing as a result of first contact resolution (FCR);

b) argue that staffing levels in contact centres must be increased to meet the needs of FCR;

c) monitor phase two and subsequent phases very closely;

d) ensure that the training given to contact centre members on FCR fully meets their needs;

e) ensure that no changes are made to the grading of the work involved as a result of FCR.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4.11 Pacesetter

Assistant group secretary Ryan updated the GEC stating that this had started to make progress nationally and the draft agreement is being looked at as they want everyone to have a say. He felt they are getting somewhere with this.

The report was noted.

Proposed GEC motion to group delegate conference on pacesetter

This group delegate conference (GDC) agrees that in order to protect members’ interests we need to secure an agreement with HMRC on the operation of pacesetter - including preparing for pacesetter. However, this is complicated by the differences in approach being adopted by individual directorates.

The GDC notes the substantial progress that has been made in implementing the decisions made by group conference 2009 to carry motion 94 and remit motion 95.

This GDC also notes the department’s commitment to improve employee engagement in response to the very poor results of the most recent staff survey. Progress towards achieving that can only happen if an agreement regarding pacesetter is reached.

This GDC believes that any agreement on pacesetter must include the following principles:

• Individual numerical work targets are unacceptable
• Individual hourly excessive and intrusive monitoring is unacceptable
• Flexible working arrangements and annual leave arrangement are applied in accordance with national guidance and local agreements
• Health & Safety risk assessments - including stress risk assessments - must be carried out before any changes of work practice are implemented
• Visual management is operated in accordance with agreed guidelines to ensure that it does not oppress staff
• Team meetings operate in a manner which ensures effective employee engagement
• Effective local industrial relations arrangement must be in place in order to ensure that any changes are subject to proper consultation

This group delegate conference instructs the GEC to seek an agreement with HMRC on the operation of pacesetter - including preparing for pacesetter, in line with the above principles and is consistent with high quality public services. In the event that an acceptable outcome is not achieved, the GEC is instructed to consult members on a programme of departmental industrial action which includes an overtime ban, a work to rule and where appropriate non-co-operation with practices which are unreasonable and detrimental to members.

The motion to conference was agreed.

6.4.12 DWP/HMRC joint debt working (GEC/075/10)

Assistant group secretary Wesley presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC disapproves the plan to offer claimants in receipt of social security benefits who also owe tax debts the option to pay these by having deductions made to those benefits.
    
2. The GEC however also agrees that the best way to oppose this practice is through political activity rather than inviting DWP and HMRC staff working in relevant area to engage in non-cooperation. The GEC therefore agrees to liaise with colleagues on the DWP GEC to formulate agreed activity on that basis.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4.13 Field force - DMB (GEC/071/10)

Assistant group secretary Wesley presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC to advise DMB management that it disagrees with its interpretation of the RDT in respect of field force agents. The AGS for DMB and HR negotiators are mandated to pursue this matter.
    
2. The GEC agrees that the “industrial action trigger” contained in MB/001/10 applies to those field force agents currently based in offices covered by the 13 January workforce change announcement.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4.14 Debt management telephone centre expansion (GEC/072/10)

Assistant group secretary Wesley presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendation.

Recommendation

The GEC agrees to convene a further meeting of DMTC reps to discuss the NDC submission from East Kilbride, Cumbernauld and Shipley

The recommendation was agreed.

6.4.15 DMB adding capacity (use of private debt collection agencies) (GEC/073/10)

Assistant group secretary Wesley presented the paper and updated the GEC.

The report was noted.

6.4.16 PDE objectives within DMB (GEC/055/10)

Assistant group secretary Wesley presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC reaffirms its complete opposition to the use of individual numerical targets in PDEs.
    
2. The GEC agrees to advise members in DMB that they should not agree PDEs which contains such targets. PCS undertakes to provide full support to members who face detriment because they have followed this advice.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.4.17 Specialist investigation (SI) directorate update and consideration of LTUS consultation recommendation (GEC/045/10)

Assistant group secretary McLean presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations.

Recommendations

1. The GEC agree to the formal setting up of an SI consultation committee to inform the GEC of members’ views on the SI transformation programme and advise the GEC negotiators on potential problems and/or negotiating objectives as the programme, and other related projects including pacesetter, develop. The need for this committee to be reviewed after 31 March 2011.
    
2. The GEC agree to meet the expenses of the chair and secretary of this committee, in line with other similar arrangements.
    
3. The GEC instruct the AGS to issue a BB to start the process of forming this committee.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.5 Industrial relations

6.5.1 Facility time (GEC/061/10)

Deputy group secretary Boniface presented the paper and asked that the GEC agree the recommendations therein.

Recommendations

1. That the GEC agree the arrangements for facility time allocation for 2010/11 as set out on the letter from the department of 16 February, and on the understanding that this allocation is separate from ‘additional time’, ULR time and H&S time;
    
2. That any revised guidance is brought before the IRWG and GEC for final endorsement;
    
3. That the IRWG make provisional allocations of facilities time based on the proposed arrangements as set out on the department’s letter of 16 February. These allocations to be subject to ratification or amendment at the April GEC.
    
4. The GEC agrees that ULR and health and safety are subject to separate provisions.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.5.2 Learning TUS (GEC/046/10)

Assistant group secretary McFadden presented the paper, updated the GEC and asked that they agree the recommendations therein.

Recommendations

1. That the GEC agree the PCS Learning committee election arrangements attached at appendix A.
    
2. That funding and facility time come from group resources.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.6 R&C organisational issues

6.6.1 Motions to conference - GEC & VOAC (GEC/49a/10, GEC/082/10 & GEC/VOAC/008/10)

Motions to conference

1. Amend group Rule 6.1 to read:
   'The group executive committee shall consist of a president (who shall be chairperson of the group), 2 vice presidents, a deputy group secretary, who shall also be the PCS nominated departmental trade union side secretary, a group treasurer, 10 assistant group secretaries, and 21 other members.'
    
2. Amend group Rule 7.24 to read:
   '7.24 The annual group conference shall elect, by card vote where necessary, the following to serve the group.
   (a) One or more SOC members
   (b) Two auditors
   (c) Four editorial board members
   (d) Eight members of each equality advisory committee.
   (e) Six members of an environmental advisory committee.
   Members elected to these positions cannot also serve, at the same time, as elected members of the group executive committee.'

This was carried by 26 votes to 5 with 1 abstention.

Move to remove transitional rules from R&C group constitution

That this GDC agrees to delete transitional rules C1, C2, C3 and C4. Delete heading before transitional rule C4 ‘review’. Accordingly, renumber transitional rule C3A ‘C1’.

VO Pay Motion to R&C group conference

The VOAC also decided it wished to have the following motion on pay at the 2010 R&C conference

The VOAC/GEC has always done everything possible to improve the pay position of PCS members working in the VOA. This extends from negotiating vigorously and pushing the VOA to put in a serious case for pay money from efficiencies outlined in the PCS national agreement to leading industrial action.

The VOAC/GEC also recognises that the current economic and political climate might be a difficult environment to deliver pay improvements.

In order to increase the pressure on VO management, HMRC and the Treasury it is now necessary to escalate the PCS pay campaign to the next level.

This GDC instructs the VOAC/GEC

• All pay increases to be consolidated including at the maxima
• Resist any increases in the number of years to maxima
• Resist any diminution in any pay band maxima
• To vigorously oppose bonus pay
• To try to secure a pay award on time
• To seek to increase the number of VO pay related ET cases
• To seek out pay comparators from across HMRC for ET cases
• In line with the VO 2010 pay claim seriously seek to secure a reduction in the number of years to maxima

The VOAC/GEC must ensure that the VO pay campaign dovetails with campaigns across the R&C group as well as the national union

The VOAC/GEC must keep the VO pay position under constant review and consult with VO representatives and members regularly

The GEC agreed the recommendations and the motions to conference.

6.6.2 Trainee delegates (GEC/087/10)

President Bean presented the paper and asked the GEC to agree the recommendation therein.

Recommendation

That the GEC endorses the selection of trainee delegates and invite them to the R&C group annual delegate conference.
The recommendation was endorsed and agreed.

6.6.3 Involving young members in HMRC in PCS activity (GEC/056/10)

Assistant group secretary Coldbeck presented the paper and asked the GEC to agree the recommendations therein.

Recommendations

1. the job description of the branch young members’ officer role as set out above;
    
2. that the attached draft branch briefing is issued to encourage activity among young members
    
3. to run a further group young members’ course in 2010, providing funding is made available as part of the group education programme.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.6.4 Personal case working group - update and draft conference motion
(GEC/037/10)

Assistant group secretary McLean presented the paper and asked the GEC to agree the recommendation therein.

Recommendation

The GEC agree to the attached conference motion being submitted on behalf of this committee at GDC 2010.

That this GDC acknowledges the benefits and improvements achieved so far from following the instructions of this conference resolution by the formation of a personal case working group, as a sub-committee of, and responsible to, the Revenue & Customs group executive committee.

This conference welcomes, supports and congratulates this working group on the progress it has made to date in identifying training needs, highlighting skills needs and taking steps to meet those needs as a group-specific basis. Conference supports the work done to secure funds to address and meet those needs on an ongoing basis.

This conference recognises that the work done to establish a group-specific personal case handling course (and start to deliver it on a regional basis) has just begun. The work done to identify training needs for a complementary refresher course is also at an early stage. Conference recognises the input of this sub-committee to the PCS national drive to improve personal case handling skills and review of legal advice service.

This conference, therefore, instructs the GEC to ensure that:

• the personal case working group is maintained;
   
• work continues to secure the funds to maintain the roll-out of the newly established group-specific training course and the complementary refresher training;
   
• these training courses are fully accredited and result in successful trainees receiving official union accreditation documentation of their ability to handle personal cases in the Revenue & Customs group;
   
• work continues on developing a group data base which identifies trends and hot spots, in line with conference resolution. 84/2008, to assist in delivering specific training and/or support to directorates, branches or offices where a need is identified;
   
• the personal case working group work with other GEC sub-committees to improve skills and organisational levels of branches with a view to ensuring that group office, and PCS, meet our legal obligations and keep group office fully notified of all personal cases in our group, at every level to include successes and failures at all levels of jurisdiction to seek to continue to improve our service to members in reaching successful outcomes in their personal cases.

The recommendation and motion to conference were agreed.

6.6.5 H&S - Midlands regional committee constitution (withdrawn)

6.6.6 Regional organisers and group organising action plan (GEC/467/09)

Negotiations officer Coote presented the paper and asked that the GEC agree the recommendations therein

Recommendations

1. The GEC agree to submit the enclosed action plan and appropriate motion to group conference.
2. The GEC agrees in principal to the role of regional organiser and make available post conference of a suitable amount of facility time to allow this function.
3. The GEC agrees to a budget to allow quarterly meetings of the regional organisers to take place each year.
4. The GEC agrees to a similar election process to that of regional secretaries/chairs of business stream. TUS, such as contact centres, i.e. co-ordinators elected by the organisers at their first meeting, on the basis of (organiser) vote, for the next 12 months.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.6.7 Membership statistics and analysis (GEC/455/09)

Negotiations officer Coote presented the paper and asked that the GEC agree the recommendations therein.

Recommendations

1. Branches to be reminded to update commix, ensuring workplaces are correctly identified and that each has a distributor
    
2. Organising Plan and Strategy to be updated
    
3. The GEC agree to run a recruitment campaign

The recommendations were agreed.

6.6.8 Funding for learning and training activities (GEC/084/10)

Negotiations officer Walsh presented the paper and asked that the GEC agree the recommendations therein.

Recommendations

1. The GEC endorses the group programme and training bid for 2010-11
    
2. The GEC endorses a supplementary bid to support ULR activity as described.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.6.9 Professional & managers’ association forum report (GEC/063/10)

Negotiations officer Coote presented the paper and asked that the GEC agree the recommendations therein

Recommendations

1. That the MOAL committee are tasked with mapping potential PMA membership and raising the profile of the PMA generally;
    
2. That the MOAL committee take forward the work at group level on developing courses for PMA members and potential members.

The recommendations were agreed.

6.7 Equalities

6.7.1 Equality motions to group conference (GEC/064/10)

Negotiations officer Coote presented the paper and asked that the GEC agree the motions therein to go to conference.

GWAC motion

That this GDC notes that women are currently disproportionately affected by workforce change and office closures.

Conference does not believe that the EQIA process has been carried out correctly to date.

Conference therefore instructs the GEC to:

• Seek legal opinion on the EQIA process to date;
   
• Following receipt of this advice prepare and submit a complaint to EHRC and the equality commission for Northern Ireland with a view for them to mount a potential judicial review.

This motion was carried.

LGBT motion

This R&C GDC notes HMRC’s new improved standing in the Stonewall workplace equality index (SWEI) 2010. This R&C GDC is concerned that the valuation office agency (VOA), whilst they did apply, did not reach the ‘top 100 employers’. HMRC’s position in the 2010 SWEI is 45, compared with 50 in 2009.

The SWEI is a yearly index, introduced in 2005, produced by the group Stonewall who campaign for lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) rights. employers complete a self assessment questionnaire on an annual basis; from this their placing is calculated. The SWEI then provides ‘the top 100 employers for LGB people in Britain’.

This R&C GDC instructs the GEC to;

Ensure all HMRC and VOA managers complete the introduction to sexual orientation training (prospectus number 0011876), cascade the information to all staff, and have time allowed to complete the training.

Continue to actively represent trans PCS members, who are not monitored or campaigned for by Stonewall. Ensure these members are equally supported and in no way disadvantaged.

This R&C GDC instructs the GEC via the VOAC to;

Ensure the VOA becomes a Stonewall diversity champion in 2010 and subsequent years. Secure and maintain PCS involvement in the VOA SWEI application for 2011 and beyond. Provide a report to group conference in 2011 and subsequent conferences. This report will include (but not limited to) developments, work in progress and achievements in relation to the VOA and the SWEI.

If the VOA refuses to engage with the VOAC, the VOAC will raise its concerns at the highest appropriate level and begin a campaign to secure the objectives of this motion. This will take place no later than a month after the refusal or failure to engage and in any case within three months of this GDC.

This motion was carried.

BAMAC motion

As the motion in agenda item 6.6.1 re rule 7.24 was carried the following motion fell:

That this group delegate conference agrees to amend the Revenue & Customs group constitution so as to incorporate the Black and Asian members advisory committee, Disabled members advisory committee, Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual with Transgender advisory committee and the Young Members advisory committee into rule along with the group Women’s advisory committee.

This GDC also agrees that to encourage full participation from all members and fully reflect the diversity of the membership of the group, the equality advisory committees should be elected by all members within the group in the same way as the GEC is elected.

This group delegate conference therefore agrees to:

Amend rule 6.10 to insert after the words “elections to the group executive committee (GEC)” “and the Black and Asian, Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual with Transgender, Women’s, Disabled and Young Members’ Group Advisory committees”;
remove rule 7.24(d) “ten members of each Equality advisory committee”; and
re-number rule 7.24 (e) as 7.24(d).”

6.7.2 Group equalities plan (GEC/068/10) - carried over to the next meeting.

6.8 For noting (policy issues)

6.8.1 Government apprenticeship scheme (GEC/036/10)

The paper was noted.

6.8.2 Health & safety advisors update (withdrawn)

6.8.3 Equalities report (GEC/065/10)

The paper was noted.

6.8.4 EQIAs in HMRC - update (GEC/044/10)

The paper was noted.

6.8.5 Specialist investigation (GEC/045/10, taken under negotiating areas 6.4.17)

6.8.6 Criminal investigation (GEC/043/10)

The paper was noted.

6.8.7 Excise, customs, stamps and money - paper withdrawn

6.8.8 Welfare service in HMRC

The verbal report was noted.

6.8.9 Pacesetter in local compliance (GEC/077/10)

The paper was noted.

6.8.10 Tax professionalism business driven development programme in
local compliance (deferred to the next meeting)

6.9. For noting

6.9.1 Face to face zone reps - 7.12.09 (GEC/076/10)

The paper was noted.

6.9.2 CC regional chairs and secretaries - 19.11.09 (GEC/078/10)

The paper was noted.

6.9.3 Editorial board - 29.9.09 (GEC/421/09 - had already been noted previously)

The paper was noted.

6.9.4 Editorial board - 3.11.09 (GEC/446/09)

The paper was noted.

6.9.5 VOAC - 15.9.09 (GEC/VOAC/GEC/064/09

The paper was noted.

6.9.6 VOAC - 6.11.09 (GEC/VOAC/GEC/065/09

The paper was noted.

6.9.7 VOAC - 25.11.09 (GEC/VOAC/GEC/003/10

The paper was noted.

6.9.8 PCWG - 9.11.09 (GEC/039/10)

The paper was noted.

6.9.9 IRWG - 10.11.09 (GEC/038/10)

The paper was noted.

6.9.10 MAOL 27.1.10 (GEC/023/10) (deferred to the next meeting)

6.9.11 HR Sub-committee - 22.7.09 (GEC/032/10)

The paper was noted.

6.9.12 Corporate functions meeting - 17.11.09 (GEC/041/10)

The paper was noted.

7. Any other urgent business

Mary Doolin, is currently on secondment with PCS as UMF Equality Officer, attended the meeting to address the GEC regarding the pilot currently running within the North West area and DWP nationally. Mary outlined the aims of the project, advertised the new branch equality officer handbook and advised the GEC that training was available for reps on EQIA & Equality. Due to time constraints, it was agreed that Mary return to the next GEC meeting to deliver a more comprehensive presentation.

Closing remarks

The president reiterated the importance of the forthcoming two-day industrial action and reminded the GEC that this takes priority over non essentials, which should be put to one side.

He expressed thanks and appreciation to the GEC for attending and wished them all a safe journey home.

Adjourned

The meeting adjourned at 2.50 p.m.