Thousands of UK Police Officers Protest over Low Payment

World | January 23, 2008, Wednesday // 00:00

Thousands of British police officers marched through central London on Wednesday in a major protest over low pay in six years, Bloomberg reported.

The rally kicked off from Hyde Park Corner to disrupt traffic across the city. The number of marchers was an estimated 18,500, a spokeswoman for the organizers from Police Federation said.

The federation, which represents forces in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, is contesting a government decision last month against backdating a pay increase for officers, limiting the rise to 1,9% annually.

Transport for London said it will close roads until 3 pm to accommodate the marchers.

The government is attempting to keep wage increases for public employees at about 2% to control a budget deficit and manage inflation.

"I would have liked to give the police more but in the fight against inflation it is necessary to take action at the right time," Prime Minister Gordon Brown told lawmakers in Parliament.

"The police have received a 39% wage rise over the last 10 years," he added.

The demonstration is the first of its kind since 5,000 officers staged a rally over pay and work conditions six years ago.

After the end of the march, the protestors will take part in a "bobby lobby" - meeting with members of the Parliament.

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