‘Real’ living wage pledge

WORKERS at Birmingham’s 2022 Commonwealth Games will be paid the “real” living wage, a report reveals.

Campaigners had called on organisers of the sporting showpiece to guarantee that employees and contractors will receive the pay-boosting independently set rate, which is higher than the legal minimum – and a report to Birmingham City councillors recommends adopting the voluntary level.

The report said: “The city council will require any contracted organisation delivering works and or services or goods in relation to the Games to have regard to the requirements of the Birmingham Business Charter for Social Responsibility and act accordingly. Their compliance with the Birmingham Living Wage policy will also be a requirement. The budget prepared for the Games reflects the city’s commitment to the Birmingham Living Wage.”

Sources confirmed it referred to the “real” living wage as set by campaign group Citizens UK.

Branch chairman Michael Seal said last night : “A lot of public money will be invested in the Games so this is a big opportunity to raise aspirations for the city and the region.

“It is fantastic news to hear that the council’s interim chief executive has recommended that Birmingham 2022 is the first Living Wage Commonwealth Games, and that contractors bidding for a role in the Games should move to adopt the real Living Wage in line with the council’s own policy. As workers face stagnating wages and an income squeeze, this is a fantastic opportunity for political leadership from the council.”