WIREDGOV

We’re changing the way the Minimum Wage is set so it keeps in line with the cost of living.  

For the first time, the Low Pay Commission (LPC) will factor the cost of living when deciding the rate of the Minimum Wage and Living Wage, in a move to put more money in working people’s pockets. 

We’re also taking the first steps towards making rates the same for everyone, regardless of age, by narrowing the gap between the National Minimum Wage, for 18–20-year-olds, and the National Living Wage. 

In addition to the cost of living, the remit of the LPC will continue to consider the impact on business, competitiveness, the labour market and the wider economy. 

The introduction of the minimum wage has been one of the most effective and successful policy interventions of the last 25 years, and this announcement is the next step in achieving the promise of a genuine living wage for working people. 

The Secretary of State for the Department of Business and Trade will write to the Chair of the Low Pay Commission and the full remit will be published today.  

This builds on the Government’s Plan to Make Work Pay, which sets out a significant and ambitious agenda to ensure workplace rights are fit for a modern economy, empower working people and deliver economic growth.   

To find out more about National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates visit this page.

What are the National Minimum and Living Wage rates for 2023/24?  

The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice 

You must be at least: 

• school leaving age to get the National Minimum Wage 
• aged 21 to get the National Living Wage – the minimum wage will still apply for workers aged 20 and under Current rates 

These rates are for the National Living Wage (for those aged 21 and over) and the National Minimum Wage (for those of at least school leaving age). The rates change on 1 April every year. 

Apprentices 

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either: 

• aged under 19 
• aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship 

Example 

An apprentice aged 21 in the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £6.40. 

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both: 

• are aged 19 or over 
• have completed the first year of their apprenticeship