ALL newly qualified First bus drivers in Glasgow will now be paid a starter rate of £10 an hour following a union deal.

Unite said it had successfully negotiated a base pay rate which will be introduced immediately.

It is the first business within the First Group to pay the rate across the UK.

Drivers are currently locked into a three year pay deal, which will end in April 2020. The new rate is being introduced ahead of next year’s pay talks in May.

First Group announced it is to sell its UK bus operations including the profitable First Glasgow routes.

Wendy Dunsmore, Unite regional industrial officer, said: “The introduction of the £10 starter rate is a significant stride forward for the hardworking drivers across Glasgow.

“The deal Unite has successfully negotiated will benefit over 330 drivers immediately.

“Unite members will welcome this move and it gives confidence going into the forthcoming pay negotiations for 2020.

“The move comes at a time when First Glasgow is essentially up for sale and demonstrates a level of commitment to the workers during this period.”