The government today has announced new National Minimum Wage rates which will take effect in October this year.

• Low paid workers aged 22 and over can look forward to an increase from £5.73 to £5.80 an hour

• The rate for 18 to 21-year-olds will also rise from £4.77 to £4.83

• For 16 and 17-year-olds, the rate will go up to £3.57 an hour from £3.53.

The government have approved these changes recommended by the LPC (Low Pay Commission) and have also agreed that the adult rate of the minimum wage should be extended to 21-year-olds. This will be implemented from October 2010.

*** Latest update on minimum wage rates which go into effect from 1 October 2010 can be found HERE