Coronavirus crisis: PFA attacks Premier League’s 30 per cent pay-cut proposal in strong statement
The Professional Footballers’ Association has criticised the Premier League over its proposals to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus crisis, questioning the benefits of a league-wide 30 per cent pay cut in a strongly worded statement.
The PFA called on the Premier League to donate more than its proposed £20m to charity, to go further in supporting the English Football League and National Leagues, and to reassess how reductions in player salaries would impact government revenues.
A PFA statement on behalf of Premier League players read: “The players are mindful that as PAYE employees, the combined tax on their salaries is a significant contribution to funding essential public services – which are especially critical at this time. Taking a 30% salary deduction will cost the Exchequer substantial sums. This would be detrimental to our NHS and other government-funded services.
“The proposed 30% salary deduction over a 12-month period equates to over £500m in wage reductions and a loss in tax contributions of over £200m to the government. What effect does this loss of earning to the government mean for the NHS? Was this considered in the Premier League proposal and did the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock factor this in when asking players to take a salary cut?
“We welcomed the opportunity to discuss this with the Premier League today and we are happy to continue talks.”
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