Welcome for minimum wage increase

BECTU has welcomed the decision by the Low Pay Commission to announce an increase in the national minimum wage.

From 1 October 2008 the national minimum wage will rise to £5.73 an hour (up 3.8% on the current adult rate of £5.52). The intermediate rate for 18-21 year olds will rise to £4.77 whilst the youth rate will increase to £3.53.

“The Low Pay Commission’s announcement last month will benefit more than one million low paid workers. BECTU welcomes these commitments which have been made despite intense pressure from business for a freeze on the minimum rates.” commented BECTU general secretary Gerry Morrissey.

The Low Pay Commission has also announced improvements to the minimum wage enforcement regime. The changes should see tougher penalties for employers who break the law and improved rights for staff denied their legal entitlements.