The changes in the minimum wage bandings since 2004 and the current rates from 1 October 2006 are set out in the following table:
|
October 2006
|
October 2005
|
October 2004
|
|
| 22 and over |
£5.35
|
£5.05
|
£4.85
|
| 18 - 21 |
£4.45
|
£4.25
|
£4.10
|
| 16 - 17 |
£3.30
|
£3.00
|
£3.00
|
The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations provide a specific lawful exemption enabling young workers to continue to be paid below the standard adult national minimum wage and allowing the different rates to be used according to the above age bands. This was in response to employers’ concerns about financial pressures if the maximum rate was applied to all employees.