H. C. S. Ferguson misunderstands (Letters, THES December 14). The possible changes to the USS on which I and some colleagues on its trustee board have consulted members, if implemented for any period of service, would allow members to draw a pension in respect of that period some 8 per cent higher than under existing arrangements, and still within revenue limits, as well as a lump sum of the same amount as they could take under today's rules. For those who prefer pension to equivalent lump sum, notwithstanding the tax advantages of the latter, the USS allows those retiring to convert any of the lump sum into pension.
Bill Trythall
Association of University Teachers
-appointed director, USS Ltd