That has prompted fears for the vast number of key workers who were not part of today's pay rise pledge. But the Chancellor's warning has prompted fears they'll be denied a proper pay rise when their time comes next spring. "In May 2020, public sector pay was up by 3.7% on the year before, compared to a fall of 1.2% in the private sector. "Furthermore, this financial year’s public sector pay awards will be significantly more than the average in the private sector. "Therefore, for reasons of fairness, we must exercise restraint in future public sector pay awards, ensuring that across this year and the CSR period, public sector pay levels retain parity with the private sector."

Source: Daily Mirror July 21, 2020 17:01 UTC