The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is reviewed annually, the increase taking effect on 1 October each year. The standard adult NMW rate is currently (from October 2006) £5.35 per hour.
The development rate and training rate increased to £4.45 on 1 October 2006. The development rate applies to workers aged 18 and 21. The training rate applies to workers who are at least 22, in the first six months of a new job and doing accredited training, for example, courses leading to National Vocational Qualifications or Scottish Vocational Qualifications.
The new rate for 16 and 17 year olds is £3.30 per hour. 16 and 17 year old apprentices will be exempt from this rate.