STORY
Labour is facing union criticism after pensions minister Torsten Bell said the timetable for extending the national living wage to workers aged over 18 would depend on Low Pay Commission advice. Labour pledged at the general election to remove what it described as discriminatory age bands in the minimum wage system.
The national living wage currently applies to workers aged 21 and over, with younger adult workers paid lower minimum rates. Bell said the Government remained committed to the principle of equalisation, but did not confirm that the policy would be completed before the next general election.
Union leaders criticised the comments and said younger workers should not have to wait for equal pay protection. The issue is politically sensitive for ministers because it sits alongside wider pressure over living standards, low pay and Labour’s attempt to show that its Government is delivering practical improvements for working people.