Council staff strike over Jo Moore's 'bad news'

The bad news that Jo Moore sought to "bury" on 11 September was revealed by leaders of today's nationwide council strike that threatens widespread disruption of local authority services.

In her notorious e-mail, the spin doctor made a mysterious reference to councillors' expenses as news that might be slipped out under cover of the terrorist attacks in America.

Yesterday, John Edmonds, the leader of the GMB general union, disclosed that some senior councillors had received increases in expenses of up to 148 per cent, provoking considerable anger among GMB members who were being forced to make do with three per cent. Some workers were on as little £4.80 an hour, he said.

The news emerged as Britain braced itself for the first strike by council workers since the Winter of Discontent in 1979. It is expected to shut schools, libraries, museums and leisure centres and halt the collection of refuse.

A report by the union-funded Labour Research Department commissioned by Mr Edmonds found Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council, was recently awarded a "special responsibility allowance" (SRA) of £48,880, taking his total income from council activities to £62,594 – an increase of 148 per cent.

At Cardiff City Council, the leader, Russell Goodway, received a 40 per cent rise including a £38,926 SRA taking his total council income to £49,122.

The leader of Manchester City Council Richard Leese, was awarded an SRA of £33,005 taking his salary to £45,109.

Mr Edmonds pointed out Sir Jeremy Beecham, chairman of the Local Government Association which is seeking to impose the three per cent rise, enjoyed a council income of £50,000 a year. The councils confirmed the figures, pointing out a government-appointed panel had recommended a new system of allowances to reflect special responsibilities.

Mr Edmonds said: "How can Labour council leaders accept such staggering pay increases at the same time as demanding 'pay restraint' from some of the lowest paid workers in the country. It's no wonder ministers went to such incredible lengths to stop news of these pay hikes leaking out."

Today, up to 1.2 million local authority staff in England, Wales and Northern Ireland ranging from social workers and architects to dinner ladies and care assistants will walk out for 24 hours in protest at the pay offer. The row remained in deadlock last night, with employers insisting they could not afford to increase their offer and the Government showing no sign of intervening.

Unison, the biggest union involved in the dispute, said picket lines would be set up outside council offices and buildings, meetings would be lobbied and marches and rallies will be held in towns and cities to ensure high visibility.

Unions have agreed to exempt some services from the action, including meals on wheels. Cemeteries would provide emergency cover, as would other departments, including social work.