27 September 2002
Sir Tony Young, who recently stepped down as president of the Trades Union Congress, has joined the review, which is led by Professor Sir George Bain, the former chair of the Low Pay Commission. Sir Michael Lyons, former chief executive of Birmingham City Council, is the third member of the team, which is charged with conducting a thorough review of all aspects of the fire service, including pay levels and how future wage rises are determined.
Geoff Ellis, national officer with the FBU, told Public Finance that the membership of the review would not change the union's stance. 'They can appoint who they like on it. We're not going to get involved,' he said.
'The whole thing is a sham and a joke. None of them have any experience of the fire service; it's just not possible for them to report on their wide-ranging remit in less than three months and the government has said there is no money available to fund any recommendations.'
Young, the former senior deputy general secretary of the Communication Workers Union, was knighted this year for his services to employment relations. It had been hoped that his involvement would entice the FBU into taking part in the review.
Sir Jeremy Beecham, chair of the Local Government Association said: 'Sir Tony's presence should at last silence FBU criticism of the inquiry. Any refusal to co-operate now appears increasingly irrational.'
The FBU is balloting its members on strike action over demands for a 39% pay hike. A strike could take place as early as October 25.
PFsep2002
