Government Response

The Government responded to this petition on Wednesday 23rd January 2019

The Government has no plans to restructure the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage to specify differing rates for workers in different industries.

The Government has committed to increase the National Living Wage to reach 60% of median earnings by 2020, subject to sustained economic growth. For younger workers, our aim is to have a minimum wage rate that helps as many low-paid workers as possible, while making sure that we do not damage their employment prospects by setting it too high.

The Government considers the expert and independent advice of the Low Pay Commission (LPC) when setting the minimum wage rates. In making recommendations to Government, the LPC draw on economic, labour market and pay analysis, independent research and stakeholder evidence. Setting the minimum wage too high or increasing it too quickly may lead to higher unemployment and harm the very people the policy is intended to help.

Since its introduction in 1999, the adult minimum wage rate has increased faster than both inflation and average earnings. In April 2019, the National Living Wage will increase by 4.9% from £7.83 to £8.21 and is on track to meet its 2020 targets. Furthermore, the National Minimum Wage will also increase by 4.3% from £7.38 to £7.70 for 21-24 year olds.

The Government has an aspiration to end low pay and next year, will set out the Low Pay Commission’s remit for the years beyond 2020.

Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy