ACS

ACS has welcomed the restraint shown by the Low Pay Commission and Government in introducing the lowest ever annual increase in the national minimum wage since it came in.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We believe there was a strong case for no increase in the national minimum wage this year. However we welcome the restraint shown in this announcement of what is the lowest ever annual increase in the national minimum wage.

“ACS has campaigned hard to ensure that we did not see yet another inflation busting increase in the Minimum Wage which has increased by over 60% in 10 years. Another similar increase would have had a damaging impact on employment and undermined economic recovery at a critical time.”

Mr Lowman also commented on the change to the rules on the youth development rate, where, from 1st October 2010, employees aged 21 and over will be entitled to the full adult rate: “Many retailers treat 21 year olds as adults already in their business. We accept this change but it does mean more potential cost for business.”