Negotiators hope to keep local government pay discussions on track despite the difficulties posed by the coronavirus crisis.

Trade unions Unison, Unite and GMB rejected an offer of 2% by national employers in February, having demanded an increase of 10%.

The restrictions put in place due to the COVID-19 outbreak halted a round of regional consultation events embarked upon by employers in the wake of the unions’ rejection.

However, the consultation has switched to alternative means in the remaining regions and it is expected that they can be completed ahead of a previously planned meeting of the national employers in a couple of weeks’ time.

The meeting will be held virtually to comply with social distancing guidance.

As reported by The MJ, prior to the coronavirus outbreak employers were understood to be open to doubling down on the 2% offer despite the risk of widespread strike action.

Current restrictions could impact on potential consultation of union members over any improved offer by employers.