I WISH to respond to the letter by Charles Nolda, who spoke for the employers in local government.

It's precisely because of views like his that council workers' pay is so low. Years ago, it was believed if you got a job on the council you had a cushy number and a job for life. Compulsory competitive tendering put an end to that.

Unfortunately, the pay did not increase accordingly. When pay rises are based on a percentage the poorly paid always get a raw deal. Three per cent of £100 is £3, 3 per cent of £500 is £18.The workers feel they must make a stand.

JOHN NORWOOD, Kidderminster.