The union has previously urged the PRB to consider all the evidence and make a recommendation based on the needs of workers, not just following the Government's affordability plan.

Rachel Harrison, GMB national secretary, said: ‘Many lower paid NHS workers will need a pay rise in April just to keep them above the National Minimum Wage.

‘GMB decided to re-engage with the PRB in light of slight reforms. But we need to see restorative pay rises for these vital workers.

‘The PRB now has the opportunity to prove that they are truly independent of the Government and make a recommendation on pay that values and recognises the workforce.'