GMB defend equal pay action against Birmingham Council

Some of Birmingham's most famous landmarks may have to be sold to pay equality settlements totalling over £1bn.

The authority has agreed settlements with thousands of women who were paid less than workers who did equivalent jobs.

Gillian Whittaker from the GMB Union, told BBC Radio 5 live's Breakfast: "Some of our members are very, very low paid and they should have been receiving this money over the years anyway."

Ms Whittaker, who helped negotiate the settlements, added: "If they have to sell properties then that is a decision they have to make."

A council spokesman said the authority had assets of about £5bn, and they "continually review all assets within our portfolio to ensure that the best value is obtained for the taxpayer".