Low pay Labour pushing ahead on wage change

THE Government has said it is pushing forward with plans to look at removing “discriminatory” age bands for the national minimum wage as it extended the remit of the Low Pay Commission (LPC).

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It said the advisory body will consult with employers, trade unions and workers on narrowing the gap between the minimum wage rate for 18to 20-year-olds, and the so-called national living wage - the UK minimum wage for workers 21 years and older.

The LPC will also be required to put forward “recommendations on achieving a single adult rate in the years ahead”.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “To ensure the right balance is struck between the needs of workers, business affordability and the wider economy, the LPC is being asked to consult on several issues before recommending the new rates.”