PUBLIC PAY MUST REFLECT RISE – Ministers say take pay rises seen in recent years into account
The government has told the organisation that reviews pay for public sector workers, it is “vital” to take into account pay rises seen in recent years, when setting wages.
Pay review bodies (PRBs) recommend the pay for 2.5 million workers.
PRBs consult the views of several groups including government departments.
Some union leaders are concerned that the government’s tone might mean pay settlements could be lower.
Unison, one of the largest trade unions, said that addressing pay “so late in the day” will mean some workers won’t get wage increase they’re due on time.
The salaries of NHS staff, as well as other public-sector workers such as police officers, teachers and the members of the armed forces, are recommended by eight pay review bodies.
They cover about 45% of public-sector staff and a pay bill of around £100 billion.
A letter from the health secretary, Victoria Atkins to the chair of the NHS Pay Review Body said: “It is vital that the pay review bodies consider the historic nature of the 2023 to 2024 awards and the government’s affordability position”.
