Mark Whitehead 07 November 2019

Delays to pay claim talks branded a 'disappointment by union

The biggest local government union has branded a delay to talks over their 10% pay claim 'a huge disappointment'.

Unison head of local government Jon Richards questioned why negotiations for a pay package for 1.4 million local authority workers could not start immediately.

This week, the employers' side of the pay body announced it would not respond to the unions' claim until the New Year because of the forthcoming general election.

In a letter to union negotiators the National Employers for Local Government Services said they would 'not be in a position to respond to your claim until the impact of the outcome of the general election is known, which they do not expect until the New Year.'

Three unions, Unison, Unite and the GMB last summer presented the claim which is aimed at being settled by April when the current two-year deal expires.

Yesterday, GMB national secretary Rehana Azam questioned the good faith of the employers' side, saying the negotiations could start despite the election due on December 12.

Today Mr Richards said: 'It is a huge disappointment to be informed by the LGA that it will not respond until the impact of the general election is known.

'We can’t see why the employers won’t at least start the negotiation process now, as discussions will go beyond the election date.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner