Union Unite has called for an "overarching industrial agreement" to ensure the £56 billion HS2 scheme is delivered on time and on budget.

Following the confirmation of firms who will build the major sections of the project, the organisation has urged for the deal to be put in place and ensure the scheme's workforce is treated fairly and decently.

Despite an initial framework agreement already being signed by relevant parties, Unite said this contains "general principals rather than specific industrial relations commitments relating to the construction of the project".

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The organisation believes an agreement must include commitments on pay rates, the incorporation of relevant industrial agreements, guarantees that workers will be directly employed, has clear targets on apprentice recruitment, a disputes resolution process and specific anti-blacklisting clauses.

Gail Cartmail Unite assistant general secretary said: "With the awarding of the main contracts it is now essential that HS2 Ltd demonstrates that it is serious about ensuring this project has first class industrial relations by signing an appropriate detailed agreement.

"We need to make urgent progress on the good work achieved in the initial framework agreement to ensure that workers are fully protected from day one.

"HS2 needs to build on the good work which has been achieved at Hinkley Point and to avoid the mistakes and problems that have afflicted Crossrail.

"An all embracing industrial relations agreement, which creates a partnership with trade unions, is the best way to ensure that this highly complicated project is delivered on time and on budget and ensures major industrial disagreements are avoided."

(LM)