Builders' pay deal will give stability

Last month 60,000 engineering construction workers received the first instalment of a two-year deal that will see basic rates rise by up to 33%.

The 33% figure includes cash consolidated from existing bonus schemes and travel payments.

For workers at smaller workplaces where bonus earnings may not be available, the rise over two years is worth 18.5%.

The national agreement itself is regarded by employers as providing a source of "stability" and "uniformity" in the industry.