Marks & Spencer has run into protest from its staff over plans to cut payments for working unsociable hours, including Sundays and bank holidays.

Shop staff learned of the plans on the same day as the retailer announced the rise in pre-tax profits. M&S will cut wages for Sundays and bank holidays from double time to time and a half. In addition, the Christmas bonus is being axed. Instead, staff will earn a seasonal bonus, but it will be paid in monthly instalments throughout the year, rather than as a lump sum.