The Labour party will back public sector strikes if the government fails to reach an agreement with trade unions over pension reforms, those approaching retirement may be interested to hear.

Deputy leader Harriet Harman said it will offer support to such action if the coalition continues with its "unreasonable" stance regarding the sector.

Speaking at the Labour Party Conference, the organisation's leader Ed Miliband said the government must carry out "serious" negotiations with unions.

General Secretary of union GMB Paul Kenny said that by increasing pension contributions by 3.2 per cent, millions of people will have their retirement incomes and pension rights affected.

He stated: "Frankly, if the Labour party cannot stand up and support people defending themselves and their families, then what does it stand for?"

Earlier this month, a group of six women delivered an oversized postcard to Prime Minister David Cameron at 10 Downing Street on behalf of Age UK to protest against pension reforms.

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