|
Public sector pay squeeze
has reduced spending power in the North West by ₤1.3 billion this year
THE public sector pay cap has reduced
spending power in the North West by ₤1.3 billion this year according to new
analysis published by the TUC. The analysis shows that the North West's
public sector workers are earning, on average, ₤2,695 less today than if their
pay had risen in line with inflation (CPI). As a result, since the pay caps
began in 2010, full time public sector workers in the North West have had ₤7
billion less to spend in the local economy.
Across North West areas, the figures show local economies are missing out on
huge amounts:-
► In Merseyside, spending power is down ₤285
million.
►
In Greater Manchester, it is down ₤497 million.
►
Lancashire has experienced a reduction of ₤267 million.
►
Across Cheshire it amounts to ₤134 million.
Recent TUC polling shows that 15% of public
sector workers skipped meals this year to make ends meet. And 24% say they
couldn't pay an unexpected bill of ₤500.
Research published by the IPPR last week revealed that raising public sector pay
would boost spending in local economies. And would help the public purse by
raising Tax revenues and reducing the cost of in work benefits.
TUC Regional Secretary for the North West Lynn Collins said:- "The public
sector pay squeeze has hit communities across the North West hard. And that
means less money spent on our high streets and in local businesses. The pay cap
is a false economy. The Chancellor must use the Budget to give all public sector
workers the pay rise they have earned, and end these artificial pay
restrictions."
|
