Minimum wage to rise to £5.93 in October

The minimum wage is set to rise to £5.93 for over-21s in October, in line with the Low Pay Commission's recommendations, the Government confirmed today.

And from October the hourly rate for for 18 to 20-year-olds will rise to £4.92. The rate for 16 to 17-year-olds will also be increased to £3.64.

The government will for the first time also introduce a statutory minimum hourly rate of £2.50 for apprentices.

Business Minister Pat McFadden said: "Today's recommendations provide a welcome increase for workers, but the economy is still fragile and government must continue to support the recovery in the months ahead.

"I'm also glad to see the commission recognising the significant contribution that apprentices make to the economy.

"I hope this will encourage more people to take advantage of this opportunity and invest in their skills by taking up an apprenticeship."

Low Pay Commission chairman David Norgrove said: "The introduction of an apprentice rate marks an important extension to minimum wage protection across the UK."