South Africa returns to work

Hundreds of thousands of South African state workers returned to work yesterday after suspending a disruptive three-week strike which hit schools and hospitals.

Union officials were giving themselves 21 days to finalise a draft agreement with their members that could end the conflict over wages that prompted 1.3 million workers to walk out, affecting public services across Africa's biggest economy.

"The majority of our members have returned to work," said Manie de Clercq, spokesman for the 211,000-strong Public Service Association.

Strikers have demanded a pay rise of 8.6 per cent, more than double the inflation rate, and a 1,000 rand (about 89) a month housing allowance.