Will the government press on with a 1 per cent pay rise for nurses? Despite the Chancellor announcing tax rises in his Budget, it’s a recommendation over NHS pay that is proving the most contentious for ministers. The Department of Health has recommended a 1 per cent rise to the independent panel that advises the government on NHS salaries. This is below what had been expected — with nurses’ unions campaigning for a pay rise as high as 12.5 per cent. Government aides are keen to stress no decision has been made as the independent body is not due to make its recommendation until May.
Speaking today before the health select committee, NHS chief Simon Stevens has confirmed that the NHS had budgeted for a higher pay rise of 2.1 per cent. When asked by the chair Jeremy Hunt why the government now wanted to pay just half of the original sum, Stevens said ‘things have changed’ in the two years since the plan was first made.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in