General   (General discussion, talk about anything.)

But, nobody stopped anybody from doing anything.

Do you know what the 'opt' in 'opted out' means?

OPTION. ..... CHOICE ...... to 'opt' means to choose.

An individual's choice to do something.

Some individuals (employees) chose not to pay into the state pension scheme anymore.
On the other hand, many chose to carry on paying into the national state pension scheme.

Nothing to do with the N.U.M.. and nothing to do with Tories.
Very much to do with people, making a choice.


I remember it, vaguely, several Fridays, in the pay-hall at Parkside colliery.
There were tables set out all round. The N.U.M. reps were there, and several agents from private pension companies.
"'ere, these lads'll sort you out", "they'll fill it in for you", "just sign it for 'em", "you'll be better off", "good companies", were the phrases I remember.

It was a big event.