The National Union of Journalists is set to bring the issue of pay in journalism to the attention of Parliament.

The union is in the process of tabling an Early Day Motion - expressing concern over low wages in the profession in general and of trainee journalists in particular - and obtaining signatures of supportive MPs.

The motion will draw comparisons with what graduates might expect to earn in their first jobs in other areas of work.

The union plans to put it forward before MPs when they return from the summer recess.

It will then use it as one of its tools as it calls on the newspaper industry to create "a satisfactory pay structure that recognises academic qualifications and dedication to the profession".