UK government offers millions of public sector workers pay hikes to end strikes

The British government offered millions of public sector workers pay raises Thursday in a bid to end an array of strikes that have crippled trains, health care and other services for more than a year amid the biggest cost-of-living crisis in generations.

The British government offered millions of public sector workers pay raises Thursday in a bid to end an array of strikes that have crippled trains, health care and other services for more than a year amid the biggest cost-of-living crisis in generations.

On the day that tens of thousands of doctors in Britain's state-funded health service launched a five-day walkout, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak accepted pay recommendations from independent review bodies. But he insisted that there would be no more discussions with unions.

Like other nations in Europe, Britain has faced disruptive strikes as workers, from teachers to train drivers and nurses, have pressed for their pay to keep pace with a sharp increase in consumer prices. A major train strike across Italy stranded tourists and commuters Thursday.

"Today's offer is final," Sunak said. "There will be no more talks on pay. We will not negotiate again on this year's settlements and no amount of strikes will change our decision."

He said the accepted recommendations are a "fair deal for the British taxpayer" and offered assurances that they wouldn't stoke further inflation.

Police will see a 7 per cent pay raise, while teachers will get 6.5 per cent and the striking doctors, who are at the early stages of their careers in the publicly funded health care provider, will receive 6 per cent.

Hospital consultants, set to strike in England next week, also will receive a 6 per cent rise. Some of the professions, including the junior doctors, will be getting additional payments.