The GMB union is describing as "scandalous" the way in which B&Q is cutting workers' weekend and overtime pay to offset the higher costs of the new National Living Wage.
The new rule, which came into effect on April 1, says that employees aged 25 and over must be paid at least £7.20 per hour.

But, ahead of its introduction, B&Q told staff that it was removing time and a half pay for working Sundays, cutting double time for working bank holidays to time and a half, and removing a summer and winter bonus equating to 6% of annual salary, amongst other changes. Employees not signing up to the new terms and conditions face dismissal.

The issue has now gained nationwide publicity following the launch of an online petition by a B&Q manager, asking management to rethink its proposals. It has now gained over 134,000 signatures.

Now, the GMB has weighed into the argument, with regional organiser Michael Ainsley saying in a statement: "Clearly we welcome the new National Living Wage. However, it will be of small comfort to members and their families if employers are actively seeking to undermine it by making changes such as these, which in many cases actually make employees worse off.

"GMB members have reported that the changes will cost them between £800 and £1,500 year.

"I have written to the chief executive officer of B&Q, Michael Loeve, complaining about the scandalous treatment of low-paid, hardworking people, but so far I have had no response. Allegedly, B&Q have been consulting with staff about their proposed changes which brings into sharp focus the inadequacy of staff forums and that only by being a member of a recognised trade union do employees have the power to really negotiate."

Meanwhile, B&Q has hit back at some of the general criticism, saying that it is retaining a number of its benefits "which make us one of the best payers in the retail sector. No one's base pay is being reduced at all, and we are paying compensation so no one's bonus or benefits will be reduced in the first 12 months.

"We are also committed to reviewing the position in 12 months' time to ensure we remain one of the best payers in retail and can attract and retain the best people."