Minimum wage increase for apprentices the ‘largest in history’

The national minimum wage for apprentices goes up today (October 1) to £3.30 per hour in the largest increase ever introduced.

The 57p boost for apprentices, which is higher than the amount recommended by the Low Pay Commission, will provide a wage comparable to other work options according to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Sajid Javid, the Business Secretary, said of the rise: “As a one nation government we are making sure that every part of Britain benefits from our growing economy and today more than 1.4m of Britain’s lowest-paid workers will be getting a well-deserved pay rise.

“The increase for apprentices is the largest in history making sure that apprenticeships remain an attractive option for young people. While the national minimum wage will see the largest real-terms increase since 2007.”

Elsewhere, the rate for workers aged over 21 has risen by 20p to £6.70, which for someone working full time would mean an annual rise of £1,185.

For 18 to 20 year olds, the hourly rate for full or part-time work has increased by 17p to £5.30, while for 16 and 17 year old employees the national minimum wage has gone up to £3.87 per hour, a rise of 8p.

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