The Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister have today announced that the National Minimum Wage for apprentices will increase by 57p an hour to £3.30.
This is the largest ever increase in the National Minimum Wage for apprentices and will halve the gap with the National Minimum Wage rate for 16 to 17 year olds, which will be £3.87 an hour from October 2015.
The government will also launch a consultation with businesses on the future of the National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices.
The government is also putting employers in control of the funding for apprenticeships by introducing a new digital apprenticeship voucher. Apprenticeship vouchers will further simplify things for employers and give them the purchasing power over the government contribution to apprenticeship funding.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
"At the heart of our long-term economic plan for Britain is a simple idea – that those who put in, should get out; that hard work is really rewarded; that the benefits of recovery are truly national. That’s what today’s announcement is all about – saying to hardworking taxpayers, this is a government that is on your side. It will mean more financial security for Britain’s families; and a better future for our country."
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said:
"This is just one of the many ways in which we’ve created a fairer society whilst building a stronger economy. If you work hard, this government is behind you all the way. Whether you’re on low pay or starting your dream career through an apprenticeship, you will get more support to help you go further and faster."
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