SCOTTISH LABOUR has called for a new law to tackle drastic post-university pay gaps facing women, disabled people and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Figures published last week showed significant levels of financial disparity five years after graduation. 

Analysis by the party shows that after this time has passed, women earn on average £2,500 less than men per year, while disabled people earn on average £2,600 less than those without disabilities. 

Disabled women are doubly impacted, earning on average £5,800 less than a non-disabled man. 

Graduates from the most disadvantaged areas also earn on average £3,000 less than those from the most affluent.

Scottish Labour social justice and security spokesperson Pam Duncan-Glancy said: “These figures are a stark reminder of the ongoing fight for equality in Scotland.

“Not everyone gets the chance to go to university in the first place, but even those do don’t get a level playing field when they graduate.”

In May’s election, Labour called for a new Equal Pay Act for Scotland, which would require all public-sector bodies and organisations with more than 250 employees who benefit from public procurement to publish regular equal pay reviews. 

Scottish Labour also called for an Equal Access Careers programme and more action to tackle the gender pay gap.  

These include the introduction of targeted training, strengthening childcare and ensuring women get a fair share of government investment. 

The Glasgow MSP added: “These profound inequalities won’t disappear by themselves.

“They’ll only disappear with bold action to tackle them — that means a government that doesn’t just talk the talk but walks the walk on equality.

“That means strong action on equal pay and a wider plan to tackle the root causes of inequalities.”