PowerGen offers 4.5% rise
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Powergen yesterday ignored the Government's pay limit of 1.5 per cent and offered its 5,000 employees an increase of nearly 4.5 per cent, writes Barrie Clement.
The privatised company - the second biggest electricity generator - is 40 per cent owned by the state. Ministers have let it be known that private companies should also follow the Government's lead in keeping the lid on wages. The offer by PowerGen comes at a time when the going rate in industry is nearer 3 per cent. National Power, the largest power generator, offered its workers 3.95 per cent.
The proposed PowerGen deal gives an increase of 2.5 per cent on salaries, but also includes lump sums varying between pounds 250 and pounds 550. The offer would add 4.47 per cent to the pay bill, compared with last year's 3.5 per cent settlement.
Frank Chapman, chief union negotiator at the company, insisted that his members were employed by a private concern. 'We have to bargain on the ability of this company to pay. It's fair and reasonable,' he said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments