THE Unite union welcomed a “ground-breaking” deal yesterday that will see fair pay for London bus drivers as Sadiq Khan unveiled plans to introduce a new minimum drivers’ wage.

The announcement will see London bus drivers receive a minimum wage of £23,000 as the mayor takes steps towards fulfilling his election promise to deliver a fair deal for the 25,000 drivers in the capital.

Under the proposals a “License for London” will see drivers’ employment record recognised if they move between operators and there is a commitment from all parties including TfL to move towards a unified London-wide pay structure.

Mr Khan said: “Our new proposals will mean that, whichever private bus company you work for, drivers will be entitled to a minimum level of pay.

“It wasn’t right that a driver with the same level of knowledge, skill and experience could get paid less simply for working on a different route or moving company.”

Unite general secretary Len McCluskey welcomed the announcement as “great news” for workers and passengers.

“It is also a huge testament to the tireless campaigning by Unite members,” he said.

“In garages right across the capital they were resolved and determined to win the fairness and stability they deserve. Their collective determination has won the day and delivered results.

“It is a win-win deal that shows what can be achieved when employers and progressive politicians work well with trade unions to support positive industrial relations.”

The new “minimum professional London bus driver wage” is set to be introduced from April 2017.