Unite Seeks Job Guarantee's At The Pru

Unite said it is seeking seeking assurances over UK jobs at the Prudential Insurance as the insurer looks to secure its takeover of the AIA Group in Asia.

Prudential is seeking to save its deal with the Asian arm of AIG amid close scrutiny of its rights issue by the FSA and shareholder disputes, while reasserting its commitment to the UK market.

Unite held crunch talks with the Prudential officials last week to seek clarity over rumours that its UK arm would be sold.
Hugh Roberts, Unite officer for Prudential, said: “On 4 May, Unite and staff were assured that the UK business remains a valued part of the Prudential.” Hugh Roberts said that if market forces were to change that position, Unite would be concerned not only for jobs but also for policyholders, especially as the Prudential has built a reputation in customer service.
He said: “Any sale of the UK business would only provide a one-off windfall, whereas now it makes a solid contribution every year to Prudential profits.”