The union that represents Miller Brewing Co.'s office workers said Monday that it will ask its members to authorize a strike if necessary in case a contract agreement cannot be reached.

The Office and Professional Employees International Union Local 35 represents more than 120 workers who perform clerical duties at Miller's Milwaukee headquarters and brewery. Judy Burnick, Local 35 business manger, said Miller's corporate parent, London-based SABMiller Plc, has proposed a pension freeze and concessions on workers' health insurance.

Miller spokeswoman Julie Kubasa said the company wouldn't comment on the negotiations, other than to say Miller executives are optimistic an agreement can be reached.

Local 35 in 2000 authorized a strike at Miller but ended up reaching an agreement without a strike.

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