Labour’s commitment to minimum wage ‘is welcome’

Labour’s proposals to minimum wage commitments, which could impact on those struggling with debt, have been welcomed.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has agreed with the party’s decision – announced as part of its election manifesto – to give the independent Low Pay Commission (LPC) a broader remit in tackling poverty pay.

TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said that the idea of not letting the lowest amount an employee can earn slip behind that of the growth of average earnings is a “good” one.

He commented: “The minimum wage must never be allowed to ‘wither on the vine'”, as this would result in low-paying employers abandoning their responsibilities and reduce those who earn less to a state of poverty.

Mr Barber added that he would like to see the LPC given extra responsibilities to report on productivity and career prospects in sectors that do not pay as much as others.

The TUC has member unions representing over six-and-a-half million working people in Britain.

By Joe Shervin