TUC: Black workers with A-levels earn 10% less than white counterparts

The analysis was published by the TUC in advance of A-level results on Thursday.

The figures show that while more qualified workers get higher pay, the pay gap for black workers often increases with more qualifications.

Black workers with degrees face a 14% pay gap (£2.63 less per hour), while those with higher education certs and diplomas face a 20% gap (£2.98 less per hour).

Black school leavers with GCSEs earn 12% less (£1.30 less per hour), and those with no qualifications face a 5% pay gap (45p less per hour).

Regardless of qualifications, black workers get paid 8.3% less than white workers – costing them an average of £1.15 an hour.

Commenting on the findings, TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Whether they have PhDs or GCSEs, black workers simply aren’t getting paid the same as white workers with similar qualifications.

“Students get their A-level results this week. The harsh reality is that race will still play a huge role in how much they get paid.

“It’s time for the government to require employers to publish pay data broken down by ethnicity. Then we can see where the problems are and put pressure on bosses to close the pay gap."

The TUC is calling for on the government to:

• Pass legislation requiring employers with more than 50 staff to analyse and publish ethnicity data on progression, employment type and pay;

• Develop a comprehensive national race equality strategy;

• Work with trade unions to establish targets and develop actions to address racial inequalities in the workforce.