Recently all employees had a small pay rise and was back dated to April 2007,I have got the pay rise but not the back pay,they say the reason for this is because I am salaried,but I do do overtime and get paid normal and time and a half when ever it fits,should I be getting back pay:confused:

You need to clear up with your employer just what your true status is. You said all employees (are those salaried or hourly) got the pay raise and got back pay. If you say you were salary then why do you get paid overtime pay? Anytime I was salary I got just that - salary regardless of how many hours I worked a week. You might have one of those employers who pay overtime to a salary employee though. I've seen it happen in some circumstances as they are being nice when they don't have to be and paying the overtime. If you don't punch a time clock, then you are not hourly.

If you are talking about a lot of back pay, then by all means, speak up. If you are not, then keep to yourself as nowadays companies are using any and all excuses to get rid of employees and you could just get yourself bounced to the curb for your curiosity.

What is the difference between a salary and hourly employee? What are the pros and cons?

I do not honestly know the answer to this,i have spoken to my line manager today and she says she cannot understand this either, who can help in this situation