The government has published a call for evidence to collate views on a new pay scale for nurses.

It will seek feedback from across the health sector on the merits of a separate pay structure for nursing staff in the NHS.

The call for evidence will also seek to understand whether the Agenda for Change contract is creating specific barriers to the career progression of nurses and explore solutions that could be considered if the evidence shows there are issues with the current arrangements.

It will run for 12 weeks.

Health Minister Andrew Stephenson said: "We hugely value the work of nurses, who play a vital role in the NHS.

"We have listened to union concerns and are launching this call for evidence to explore the risks and benefits of a separate pay structure for nurses.

"I want stakeholders to share their expertise and help us collate feedback from across the healthcare sector, ultimately helping to make the NHS a better place to work."