TEACHERS' PAY SETTLEMENT

That this House applauds the work done by public sector workers; in particular recognises the vital role that teachers play in the lives of millions of young people; believes that those working in the public sector should receive a real terms pay increase; further believes that the retail price index, which is currently 4 per cent. should be used as a reference point for setting public sector pay rather than the consumer price index; recognises that the teachers' pay settlement of 2.45 per cent. this year will in effect mean a pay reduction; and calls on the Government not to return to the days of boom and bust in teachers' and public sector pay with the consequential problems that this causes in relation to recruitment and retention and the maintenance of morale.