Combined deal for M&E in view

Hopes are rising that this autumn may see real progress towards establishing a combined agreement on pay and conditions in the mechanical and electrical engineering sectors.

Employer sources have confirmed only that there are "ongoing discussions".

It is understood that discussions are focussing on two issues - an alignment of the separate electrical, heating and ventilating, and plumbing industry agreements, together with a parallel special combined deal covering big sites.

The massive M&E content of Heathrow Terminal Five is believed to be putting special emphasis on reaching a big sites deal.

Paul Corby, national secretary of the Amicus union's electrical and engineering section, said his union is ready in principle to agree a deal. He suggested that discussions are pointing towards an alignment of the substantive agreements rather than a full merger.