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Labour's Wage Plan Could Heighten Youth Unemployment, Warns Bain

12/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Sir George Bain, founding chairman of the Low Pay Commission, warns Labour's plan to abolish the youth minimum wage could worsen youth unemployment.
Labour aims to remove age-based pay disparities and ensure equal pay.
Currently, workers aged 18–20 earn £10 per hour, and workers over 21 earn £12.21.
Bain notes the tension, citing 16–24 unemployment at 15.3% versus 5% overall, while employers warn higher wages curb youth hiring.

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Story summary

Sir George Bain, founding chairman of the Low Pay Commission, warns Labour's plan to abolish the youth minimum wage could worsen youth unemployment.
Labour aims to remove age-based pay disparities and ensure equal pay.
Currently, workers aged 18–20 earn £10 per hour, and workers over 21 earn £12.21.
Bain notes the tension, citing 16–24 unemployment at 15.3% versus 5% overall, while employers warn higher wages curb youth hiring.