SNP presses UK Government to lift public sector pay cap

Scotland's Finance Secretary is calling on the UK Government to end the public sector pay cap.

Derek Mackay announced last week the 1% pay cap for public sector workers in Scotland will end.

He urged the UK Government to join Scotland in scrapping the restriction.

Mr Mackay said: “The SNP has already made clear that in Scotland the pay cap will come to an end and ahead of the next budget we will discuss a new approach to give public sector workers across Scotland a new pay deal.

“However some public sector workers in Scotland are covered by UK-wide pay policies and we want to see the cap come to an end for them as well.

“The Tories must act and act now to confirm that the pay cap will come to an end, that there will be increased investment in public services and public sector workers and that they will bring a halt to this needless and excessive austerity drive.''

Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale has written to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon urging her to reveal more details of plans to scrap the pay cap, including how much extra money public sector workers can expect.

Ms Dugdale said: “Labour will keep the pressure on the SNP Government over its pay cap U-turn.

“Nicola Sturgeon voted against scrapping the pay cap for NHS staff in May but is now promising to lift it.

“There are now a series of questions the First Minister must answer, including what pay rise staff will receive, and when.

“Public sector workers across Scotland need a pay rise and Labour will ensure it is delivered.'