Pay freeze is ‘nothing short of a disgrace’

25 November 2020

Responding to today’s Spending Review announcement about public sector workers, National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales John Apter said: “ After years of austerity and a real terms pay cut of 18%, today’s news will be a kick in the teeth for police officers.

“This year my colleagues have been on the frontline in the battle against COVID-19, protecting the public and putting their own safety and the safety of their families at risk. Despite the warm words and the weekly applause for key workers, it seems to count for nothing.

“We are realists; we know that the country is facing a difficult economic future. But rewarding those who have played a vital role in the fight against the virus with a pay freeze is nothing short of a disgrace.

“A handful of officers will get the additional £250 for the lowest paid workers, but only those who are already on an appallingly low starting salary for the dangerous job they do.

“I appreciate the devil will be in the detail, but the headlines from today’s announcement does nothing to show appreciation to police officers and other public sector workers who have kept the wheels turning during 2020.”

Avon and Somerset Police Federation Chair, Andy Roebuck said, “this is deeply disappointing and undermines previous conversations and appreciations that the Government has shown us. We feel deeply let down by a Government, which has promised much but not delivered the required pay and conditions. Locally and nationally we will look to unpick this statement and will strive to get the best deal for our members.”