Scottish civil servants to strike over pay

The members of Unison, Unite and GMB are to take part in a 24-hour stoppage on 20 August. The action will affect environmental departments, housing, leisure, libraries and residential care.
 
Dougie Black, head of local government at Unison, said: "Members are angry that employers want to lock them into 2.5% pay increases for the next three years, while inflation is rising and set to continue."

The news comes a day after inflation was announced to have hit 4.4% - double the Government's target.

Black added: "We have a window of opportunity to avoid disruptive strikes. Lets hope the employers take it."