PM's spokesman: 'The industrial action is unnecessary'
The PM's spokesman said: "Clearly, we think the industrial action is unnecessary. We have set out our proposals for reforming public sector pensions.
"We think they are fair, we think they ensure that public sector pensions remain among the very best available and they mean we can sustain that system into the future.
"I think most people recognise that the Government has to deal with the financial situation it is faced with and that that means taking some difficult decisions to cut public spending."
A view from the picket lines
Have today's public sector strikes had the desired impact or did they simply fall short?
Union leaders warn of more strikes after day of action
Unions have warned that strikes by public sector workers in the row over pensions will continue following a day of walkouts and protests.
Britain's borders prepare for strike action
UKBA workers strike against government cuts, but can Britain's borders be properly policed with a cut to their workforce?