“April 2024 Marks a 9.8% Hike in UK Minimum Wage to £11.44 per Hour”
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has announced a significant increase in the UK’s minimum wage, the National Living Wage, by 9.8%, reaching £11.44 per hour starting in April next year. This substantial raise, one of the largest in advanced countries in terms of average earnings, will extend to workers aged 21 and 22 for the first time. Chancellor Hunt confirmed the decision, emphasizing that the Conservative Party’s goal of “ending low pay” has been achieved.
The raise represents a 9.8% increase for workers over 23 compared to last year and a notable 12.4% jump for those aged 22 and 21. Workers aged 18-20 will also see an increase in the National Minimum Wage to £8.60 per hour, benefiting 2.7 million low-paid workers. Apprentices will experience a pay hike of over 20%, rising from £5.28 to £6.40. While this move has been lauded for addressing low pay concerns, certain industries have expressed apprehensions about higher wage bills, echoing concerns raised during a similar rise last year.
