THE majority of women employees in the North-East are unaware they are likely to be paid less than men, research has found.
A survey carried out for the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) revealed that 88 per cent of women surveyed, and 94 per cent of those aged 24 and under, expected to earn the same as a man with the same qualifications.
But the New Earnings Survey 2003 indicated that women working full-time in the North-East earn £90 a week less than men.
The findings coincide with the launch of an EOC fair pay campaign, which is being backed by Redcar MP Vera Baird.
She said: "The latest figures from the EOC show that women rightly expect equal pay, but the reality is very different. Employers need to carry out pay reviews to check they are paying all of their staff fairly."
It is illegal to pay a woman less than a man for the same or similar work.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article