Minimum wage boost announced across all age groups in UK

LONDON: The British government has approved a nationwide increase in the minimum wage, with the new rates set to take effect from April next year, giving millions of workers a modest pay boost amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

According to foreign media reports, the hourly wage for workers aged 21 and above will see a 4.1 per cent increase, raising the minimum rate to £12.71 per hour.

Employees in the 18 to 20 age bracket will receive an even larger uplift, with their minimum wage rising 8.5 per cent to £10.85 per hour.

Younger workers will also see improvements. The minimum wage for those aged 16 and 17 is set to increase by 6 per cent, bringing the new rate to £8 per hour.

The announcement sparked mixed reactions. Trade unions welcomed the pay rise, saying it will provide much-needed relief as workers continue to face inflationary pressures. However, critics argued that the increase falls short, warning that wage growth is still not keeping pace with the rising cost of essentials, particularly housing, energy, and food.

The government maintains that the adjustment reflects economic conditions and ensures fairer pay for young and adult workers alike as the country moves into 2026.