That's great, it's another argument for you to draw the line in the sand at 0%.
I didn't know that they stated you to be market rate and good value for money. What do I know, maybe you are. I'm on your side 100% whether you are or not anyway.
I'd suggest that it's a sensible position to take. A publicly listed company (theoretically) answerable to shareholders would probably gain little affection by broadcasting that it pays too much for something it could get cheaper. It would also make little sense to upset the workforce with barbs and then cut their pay when it could just cut pay and leave everyone with a smile on their face.
I also wasn't aware you've surrendered more than 2.6%, I got that figure from the press..!