Are You Paying Fair?

A new campaign launched today by business secretary Peter Mandelson will boost workers’ awareness of their rights and highlight tough new penalties facing businesses which underpay from April ‘09.

“The minimum wage was introduced when I was secretary of state for trade and Industry ten years ago and I am so proud to see the difference it has made to the lives of millions of hard working people across the UK,” comments Lord Mandelson. “More than one million workers benefited from its increase last month and it’s important that we make sure everyone knows what they’re entitled to, that’s what this campaign is all about. Of course, most businesses treat staff fairly, but the small number who cheat their workers are flouting the law and undercutting honest competitors. Our changes will make sure everyone caught not paying their workers properly faces a stiff penalty - we are determined to ensure workers are paid fairly.”

An “It’s Your Call” roadshow will be launched in Downing Street before touring the UK over a three-month period, stopping off at 28 towns and cities, giving workers advice on their entitlements and how to make a complaint if they have been underpaid.

The roadshow will have facilities to report cases of pay abuse, while fully-trained staff will be on the spot to give expert face-to-face advice to workers. Visitors to the events will also hear local people tell their stories of underpayment and the help they received tackling wage abuse.

There are three levels of minimum wage, and the rates as of 1st October 2008 are:

- £5.73 per hour for workers aged 22 years and older
- A development rate of £4.77 per hour for workers aged 18-21 inclusive
- £3.53 per hour for all workers under the age of 18, who are no longer of compulsory school age