Over at the workers’ paradise which is the Guardian they were promised a say in Rusbridger’s pay. The bosses have gone back on that pledge according to the NUJ:

From: Brian Williams

To: editorial.gnm

We would have preferred to avoid a running commentary on what are so far inconclusive ACAS talks, but given the note sent out by company negotiators yesterday we felt it would be helpful to clarify a couple of points.

Throughout the latest round of negotiations, we have repeatedly suggested that if the company really has no wish to make compulsory redundancies nor impose worse terms and conditions it should revoke the HR1 form that started the 90-day consultation period that has to precede such draconian measures. It has declined to do so on each occasion.

Also, it has emerged in the past few days that the company has gone back on its commitment to introduce elected staff representation on the ‘remco’ panel that determines executive pay – a pledge which underpinned last year’s settlement. Such a breach of undertaking clearly undermines our ability to reach agreements in good faith.

As chapel negotiators, we feel we are still some way off a package that would bring the stability for both the company and staff that we are seeking.

We will of course keep you informed as things develop – and call a chapel meeting as soon as we have something concrete to report.

Regards

Brian (on behalf of the chapel officers)

Someone should write a strongly worded letter to the editor…