By a 99% majority, members of Prospect have accepted the introduction of a whole-career scheme for new entrants, with a pension age of 65. Existing staff of the Classic, Classic Plus and Premium Schemes will keep their current terms.

Specialists are among 760,000 public servants affected by the changes to the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme, working in government departments, agencies and other public bodies.

Announcing the result of the national ballot by 35,000 scientists, engineers, managers and other specialists in Prospect, General Secretary Paul Noon said:

"This is a good deal for members and the taxpayer. The overwhelming vote in favour shows that our members value the safeguards and flexibilities we have negotiated for their pensions.

"There has been a very similar positive vote by members of the Public and Commercial Services union. I hope politicians of all parties will take note of what has been achieved – an agreed solution to a very difficult issue to which members have given a resounding vote of confidence."

Regulations implementing the changes to the PCSPS will be laid before Parliament later today (Thursday) by the Cabinet Office. The new whole career scheme for new entrants will take effect from Monday 30 July.