In a written ministerial statement to the Commons yesterday, Home Secretary Priti Patel said that police officers earning more than ￡24,000 would be affected by the freeze. Those earning less will be given an annual rise of ￡250.

       She said: "As set out at the Spending Review (2020), there will be a pause to headline pay rises for the majority of public sector workforces in 2021-22."

       When the plans were announced in the Spending Review last November, John Apter, chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales that represents rank and file officers, said: "Rewarding those who have played a vital role in the fight against the virus with a pay freeze is nothing short of a disgrace."

       Nick Thomas-Symonds, Labour shadow home secretary, said: "This is a blow for officers who have served the country so bravely throughout the pandemic."