DON’T MISS THE BUS ON THE NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE
7th March 2008
Kilmarnock and Loudoun MP, Des Browne is promoting a UK Government 3 month National Minimum Wage campaign to encourage awareness of the national minimum wage and help tackle rogue employers.
A specially kitted out National Minimum Wage information bus, will be travelling across the UK, offering free help and advice on the minimum wage.
The campaign has coincided with the announcement last week that the adult minimum wage is from £5.52 to £5.73, while the rate for 18-21 year olds will also increase from £4.60 to £4.77 and the rate for 16-17 year olds from £3.40 to £3.53. These increases will come into force in October.
Commenting on the rate increase the local MP said:
“Some 87,000 people in Scotland will benefit from this increase. Together with the Working and Child Tax Credits, the national minimum wage will currently guarantee that every family with one child and one person in full-time work will receive a minimum income of £276 per week from October 2007, up from £182 in April 1999. Increases like these demonstrate the UK Government’s determination to tackle social injustice and ensure fairness at work while keeping our economy strong and competitive.”
Speaking about the Government’s National Minimum Wage Campaign and increase
Des said:
“Staying up all night to vote for the National Minimum Wage in 1998 was a historic moment for me and one of this Government’s proudest achievements. The purpose of this campaign it to raise awareness and ensuring that workers get the information that they need. I would urge anyone who thinks they are being underpaid to contact the National Minimum Wage helpline on 0845 6000 678. Calls are confidential and lines are open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
“In 2006 almost £427,000 was recovered for over 800 Scottish workers. So if there are any local firms out there who might be thinking about paying less than the Minimum Wage - don’t do it- you will get caught and you will be prosecuted to the fullest extend of the law.”
The UK Government has also boosted funding for enforcement of the National Minimum Wage and is planning tough new penalties for rogue employers who underpay staff as part of the Employment Bill, now before the Parliament.
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