The move follows a campaign this year backed by the Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI), Amicus, GMB, and the Transport and General Workers Union.

Both the industry and unions have agreed to work together to develop a modern agreement that will be of benefit to all parties.
Amicus GPMS assistant general secretary Tony Burke said that the union recognised the need to modernise the agreement and would work with the CPI to do so.

"It is important that the UK paper industry remains highly productive and competitive," he said.

A steering group comprising industry and union figures has been established.