When I noticed that three public sector unions are to ballot their members about strike action because of worries over their pensions, I thought it was about time that I examined my company’s pension plan.

Or, to tell the truth, my pension plan. But I have even more power in my company than the Transport and General Workers Union, the Fire Brigades Union and Unison put together.

I’m just as worried as the unions, however, and I suspect many small businessmen are; both on a personal level and corporately. My worries were exacerbated by the news that Norwich Union is cutting some bonuses for those holding pension plans with the company. And guess who mine is with?

Recently, when I asked in this column for help on what to do about a recalcitrant French debtor, I received some very good advice. And on the basis that what’s good for me will be good for others, too, I’m wondering if those who read this column have any advice for me on my pension.

It is with Norwich Union. Not that when I took it out in 1983 it was with them. I joined Provident Mutual who mutated into General Accident, who became CGU who merged with Norwich Union.

Not that they asked my opinion or even whether I wanted to stay with the company once it had been taken over.

Norwich Union tell me that the Provident Mutual approached all their members (because they were a Mutual Society) when they were taken over by General Accident, but I

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