EDF expects battle over generous staff perks

EDF, the French state-controlled energy company, is preparing for a battle with trade unions as it tries to cut back long held privileges and generous pay for executives and managers.

The company hope to buy staff out of a deal dating back to 1946 which allows around 30,000 top level staff to work 32 hours a week or around 196 days a year.

According to state auditors, the Cour des Comptes, salaries at the energy firm have risen rapidly, above inflation with little relation to the performance of staff.

Employees also enjoy a number of other perks described as “exorbitant for the public purse”, including low-cost electricity, cheap loans, 27 days holiday, a further 27-31 days of time off in ‘recuperation days’, bonuses for marriages and births, subsidised housing as well as financial help with children’s school and university fees.