Boost for low-paid furniture workers

A formula to raise minimum pay rates and a new clause enshrining principles of equality and diversity have been agreed by the British Furniture Joint Industrial Council.

The January 2004 agreement also sets bereavement leave entitlement at three days on the death of a spouse, child, parent or sibling, and two days for a grandparent or "in-law". The agreement was negotiated between BFM Ltd and the GMB union's CFTA Section.

There are now three minimum rates for a 39-hour week: £183.20 for an adult labourer or porter, £196.07 for an adult packer and £212.84 for a journeyman/journeywoman. Over four years, however, the lowest rate (for a labourer/porter) will be uplifted to equate to the adult packer's rate, starting with a rise to £189.15 in October. A supplement will then be added to this in January of the following four years; first a quarter of the difference between the two rates, then a third, then a half, and finally the rates will be equalised.

The new equality and diversity clause commits the parties to develop a code of practice promoting positive and non-discriminatory policies and practices. This should apply to the recruitment process, conditions of work, training, re-training, promotion and career development opportunities. The agreement also recognises that "people with dependants have certain rights and may have particular needs or problems deserving special consideration".