National Gallery staff in 'living wage' strike

Workers at the National Gallery will stage the first strike since the formation of the new Government when they walk out tomorrow in a row over pay.

Warders and shop staff at the gallery in London will take industrial action for two hours tomorrow lunchtime as part of a campaign to achieve the so-called London Living Wage of £7.60 an hour.

Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services union, said: "Our members provide valuable services at what is one of London's major cultural attractions, but they are living on poverty pay.

"During the election campaign, there was general agreement between the main parties that civil and public servants in London deserve to be paid the living wage. This will be an early test for the new Government to show its commitment to fair pay."