I wonder if anyone would consider changing the direction slightly on the negotiation and look to take a lower than august rpi increase but ask for the calculated difference to be added to trainees pay at all levels. Trainee pay scales have not been increased for about 4 years (except those at college affected by minimum wage changes). As this is a year on year decrease, many are suffering. Not all trainees are 18, single and with no responsibilities, many are supporting families and paying mortgages etc. I realise it's a choice to be a trainee etc, but they are the future of the company, so maybe it would be a generous show of support by their valid controller colleagues?