Possibility of a regional, rather than national, minimum wage?

If implemented, it would be likely to mean that the minimum wage for employees in London and the South East, where living costs are higher, would be higher than in other parts of the country.

The current hourly national minimum wage is:

£5.35 for workers aged 22 or over;

£4.45 for those aged 18 to 21; and

£3.30 for those workers aged 16 and 17.

From 1 October 2007, these rates will be increased as follows:

£5.52 for workers aged 22 or over;

£4.60 for those aged 18 to 21; and

£3.40 for those workers aged 16 and 17.

We will keep members updated on any further news in this area.