LANCASTER City Council is to suggest a flat rate pay increase for lower paid workers in national pay talks which are due to begin shortly.

Unions had asked councillors to support a pay increase of £1,750 or six per cent, whichever is greater.

Councillors rejected that specific proposal but have asked pay negotiators to look at a structure, which would see a specific cash sum for lower paid employees.

Independent socialist Cllr Brian Penney raised the issue at a city council meeting on Wednesday.

He welcomed the council's decision to back a flat rate pay increase in a consultation exercise.

He described a 2.5per cent pay offer by councils as 'derisory.'