National Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage applies to nearly all workers and sets hourly rates below which pay must not be allowed to fall. The rates set are based on the recommendations of the Independent Low Pay Commission. It is divided into 4 age groups.
Under 16 – National Minimum Wage is not applicable
- 16 and 17 years old called the young persons rate
- 18 to 21 years old called the development rate
- 22 years and older called the adult rate
Apprentices
NB Apprentices under age 19 will NOT qualify for the National minimum wage
Apprentices over age 19 and in the first 12 months of their apprenticeship
will NOT qualify for the National minimum wage
From October 2007 the rates are:
- for 16 to 17 year olds - £3.40 per hour
- for 18 to 21 years olds - £4.60 per hour
- and for those 22 years and older - £5.52 per hour
However, an employer can be exempt from paying the minimum wage if the job comes with ‘accredited training’.
HM Revenue & Customs - National Minimum Wage Helpline
HM Revenue & Customs - National Minimum Wage Helpline. You can also call the helpline if you want to make a complaint about an employer who you suspect is not paying the minimum wage.
BERR - Employment Matters - National Minimum Wage
Department for Business Enterprise & Regulatory Reform website - Information on National Minimum Wage
Low Pay Commission
The Low Pay Commission (LPC) advise the Government about the National Minimum Wage.
