Government considering delay to equalising national minimum wage after jump in youth unemployment
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Ministers are considering a slower rise in the minimum wage for younger workers, amid fears over rising youth unemployment.
Labour had promised in its manifesto to equalise national minimum wage rates by the time of the next election, saying it was unfair younger workers were paid less. Government sources said equalisation remained the aim but the rise could come more slowly.
At the current rates, those between 18 and 20 are paid a minimum of £10 an hour, rising to £12.21 an hour for those over 21.
