Business Minister Pat McFadden has announced the appointment of Peter Donaldson as a new Commissioner to the Low Pay Commission.
He replaces outgoing Commissioner, Ian Hay OBE, who steps down from the post on 31st May 2010. The appointment is for three years, with the option of reappointment.
Pat McFadden said:
“The National Minimum Wage has been a huge success since its introduction in 1999. In that time it has made millions of workers better off.
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“The Low Pay Commission gives the government the expert and impartial advice that is essential to this ongoing success. Peter’s range of knowledge and experience will ensure that the Commission can continue to provide excellent advice that strikes the right balance between the needs of businesses and workers.
“I would also like to thank Ian Hay for his work. He has been a dedicated servant of the Low Pay Commission for 10 years and his hard work and commitment has been greatly appreciated. I wish him every success for the future.”
Additional information:
Peter Donaldson has studied at Queen’s University, Belfast, and has a BSc Honours in Economics. He has had a distinguished career in both private and public sectors and has extensive experience within the small business community. He is currently a Managing Director of d5 Consulting Ltd, involved in project management, sales and marketing. He has served as a non-executive Director of Business Innovation Link and has also been a Member of the Small Business Council.
The appointment will take effect from 1st May 2010. It is for three years with a possibility of reappointment. The appointment will require a commitment of an average 18 days per year. Remuneration is on the basis of a daily rate of £242.12, and reasonable expenses.
All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any declared) to be made public. Peter Donaldson has declared no such political activity.
The new appointment was made following an open selection process conducted in accordance with the Code of Practice and other guidance issued by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
The Low Pay Commission (LPC) is a Non Departmental Public Body responsible for providing advice on the National Minimum Wage. The Commission reports to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State and consists of a Chair and eight other members.
The LPC monitors and evaluates the impact of the National Minimum Wage, with particular reference to the effect on pay, employment and competitiveness in low paying sectors and small firms; the effect on different groups of workers; the effect on pay structures; and the interaction between the minimum wage and the tax and benefit systems. The Commission reviews the level of the National Minimum Wage adult rate and the development rates and makes recommendations, if appropriate, for change.
In making its recommendations, the Commission is asked to have regard for the wider economic and social implications; the likely effect on employment, especially amongst disadvantaged groups in the labour market, and inflation; the impact on the costs and competitiveness of business; and the potential costs to industry and the Exchequer.
