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UK News

Thousands join public sector strike

Firefighters, teachers, civil servants and local government staff across the country will go on strike in anger at the coalition governments policy on wages.

Public sector pay was frozen in 2010 and as of 2012 has been capped at a 1% annual rise.

Unions say this is unfair because inflation is much higher.

Striking workers will hold a march and rally in Central London between 11.30 and 14.00.

The strike was first called by union Unison but several others have now called on their members to walk out.

General Secretary at Unison, Dave Prentis, said: "These workers care for our elderly, clean our streets, feed and educate our school children and keep our libraries running, but they receive no recognition in their pay packets.

"They are mainly low-paid women workers, stressed and demoralised, and they deserve better from their employers and from this government.

"This is the group that has borne the brunt of the government's austerity agenda."

The Local Government Association said the action was "disappointing" but it would "not change the pay offer we have made".

Thousands of schools are expected to have to close as teachers all take part in the industrial action.

Clive Ireson is Director of Strategy at the Association of Christian Teachers.

He told Premier's Antony Bushfield the strike will have serious consequences:

A spokesperson from the Department for Education said:

"Ministers have met frequently with the unions and will continue to do so.

"Further strike action will only disrupt parents' lives, hold back children's education and damage the reputation of the profession.

"We know that the vast majority of our teachers and school leaders are hardworking and dedicated professionals.

"That is why we are giving teachers more freedoms than ever and cutting unnecessary paperwork and bureaucracy. In fact, teaching has never been more attractive, more popular or more rewarding."

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