The National The National Minimum WageMinimum WageThe National The National

Minimum WageMinimum Wage

Arguments for and against.Arguments for and against.

What is the National Minum Wage?

• The N.M.W. is a set hourly rate which is the least employers must pay to their workers

• It is currently £4.50 for people over 22

• For people aged 18-21 it is £3.80• It was brought in By Labour in

1999.

Arguments in favour of a National Minimum wage:

1. It protects the poorest paid workers in industries which are traditionally low paid:

• Catering and tourism• Agriculture• Care services

2. It has not led to ,’massive job losses’

3. People will spend extra wages so jobs could go up not down

4. Fewer people will need benefits

Arguments against the National Minimum Wage

• The cost of running some businesses will go up so prices will go up too

• Some employers may have to sack workers because they cant afford it

• Some employers may exploit ‘illegal’ workers who cant demand the Minimum Wage.