Minimum wage to increase

The Low Pay Commission has welcomed the government’s confirmation that the adult minimum wage rate will be upped.

The Government has confirmation that, from October 1st 2009, the adult minimum wage be bumped up from £5.73 to £5.80 an hour.

Meanwhile, the Youth Development Rate will climb from £4.77 to £4.83 an hour and the minimum wage for 16-17 year olds will be upped to £3.57, from £3.53.

George Bain, chairman of the Low Pay Commission, said: "These are very challenging times for the UK and unprecedented economic circumstances for the minimum wage."

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The commission claimed there is a "strong case" for paying apprentices an apprentice minimum wage under the same framework – and looks forward to hearing the government’s position on this matter.

Meanwhile, the Trades Union Congress has also welcomed the news, but believes the low paid must have more next year.