Firefighters have overwhelmingly accepted a new pay offer, ending the prospect of strikes. The settlement is for a 7% increase backdated to July 2022, plus an additional 5% from July 2023. Ninety-six per cent of Fire Brigades Union members voted to accept the deal on an 84% turnout. The FBU’s general secretary, Matt Wrack, said: “The overwhelming vote by FBU members to accept the improved offer means the dispute is resolved on terms that are favourable to firefighters. “We pay tribute to members of our union for their determination and unity throughout the past year. Firefighters will now receive two pay increases, including nine months of back pay. “The FBU leadership has been determined not to sugar-coat the offer. For the current year, 7% is still another real-terms pay cut. For the following year (July 2023 to July 2024), when inflation is forecast to be lower, 5% may amount to a slight increase in real-terms pay.”