FMB agrees 8% rise to lift minimum to £250/week

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has agreed an 8.1% pay rise for operatives employed under its single-union Batjic national deal with the TGWU.
The settlement takes effect from 7 June. It increases the craft basic rate from £7.75 to £8.38 per hour and the adult general operative rate goes up from £6 to £6.47 per hour. There are pro rata increases in skill bands and trainee rates.
Improvements in benefits include the phasing out of three waiting days before a worker qualifies for sick pay.
TGWU national secretary Bob Blackman said: "We are very pleased with the result. The improved conditions and rates of pay are a big step forward for the construction industry in its efforts to retain and recruit new workers.
"The deal sets a minimum standard of just over £250 per week."
FMB chief executive Ian Davis said: "Economic growth has been strong. But recent figures suggest that the construction market may not grow so strongly in the near future as in the recent past. However, I am sure the agreement will be acceptable to members across the country."