A new partnership agreement has been struck between Thames Water and its recognised trade unions, writes David Duffy.

All 5,200 employees were asked to take part in a referendum on the introduction of the new arrangements, and 71 per cent returned their voting forms in favour.

The new partnership aims to enhance employee involvement and participation, improved training and development, a review of terms and conditions and initiatives for part time working.

Thames Water said it was hoped the new agreement would bring more open and constructive employee relations and less time-consuming and costly pay negotiations.

The partnership will be implemented over the next few weeks with the aim of introducing new initiatives next April.