Rishi Sunak hints he could overrule public sector pay rises for doctors, nurses and teachers

The Prime Minister has hinted he is prepared to overrule public sector pay review bodies in a bid to prevent pay rises from stoking inflation.

It has been suggested the government is considering disregarding recommendations for a 6 per cent pay rise for doctors, nurses and teachers when it publishes formal pay offers next month.

Speaking to the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg show, Rishi Sunak said: “I have to make difficult decisions as Prime Minister. Everyone can see the context that we’re in with inflation and interest rates.

“Now, I want to prioritise the things that are right for the country. So, yes, we’re investing in the long-term [NHS] workforce plan.

When it comes to public sector pay. I’m going to do what I think is affordable, but I think is responsible.

“Now that may not always be popular in the short term, but it’s the right thing for the country.”

It comes after John Glen, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, hinted that the government may overrule recommended pay rises for public sector workers.

He said the Treasury “haven’t had all the pay review body reports” and that government “may accept” their recommendations.

“Obviously, we’ve also got to take account of the effect on inflation. That would be irresponsible not to do so. So, we haven’t finished that process,” he told Sky’s Sophy Ridge on Sunday show.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has accused the government of “playing politics with working people’s incomes” and called the alleged plans “deeply cynical”.

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “It risks permanent economic harm – and will undoubtedly damage recruitment and retention of staff in our vital public services.

“Instead of blaming workers who can’t afford to put food on the table or petrol in their cars to get to work, ministers should focus on a credible plan for sustainable growth and rising living standards.

Earlier this year, unions representing some NHS workers agreed to a 5 per cent increase alongside a one-off payment, but this was rejected by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), and the results of their ballot for further strike action are expected next week.

The Telegraph reports that pay review bodies have recommended teachers receive a 6.5 per cent pay rise this year while other workers, including junior doctors and police officers, would get 6 per cent.