My employer reduced our working hours as a means of reducing wages. We were told to accept this or else they would cut the hourly rate of pay instead. This was all done with out any agreement. The union's position, which I understand, is that if you don't accept it what do you do next - go on strike. Employers, whether they are in real trouble or just jumping on the band wagon hold all the aces and we just have to accept it - for the time being.