Many readers, like myself, understand the challenges of working hard every day to pay the bills while still struggling to make ends meet.
During my time as a young single mother, I worked long night shifts in a low-paying home help job to support my family. The National Minimum Wage, introduced by the previous Labour government, was crucial for me and many other low-wage workers, providing extra income and the stability needed to progress in life.
Unfortunately, after 14 years of Conservative governance marked by failure and economic stagnation, millions of hardworking individuals nationwide are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their finances.
Upon winning the election a year ago, the Labour government prioritized improving wages with the objective of ensuring that work pays off. Consequently, we instructed the Low Pay Commission to factor in the cost of living when determining the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage for the first time.
As a result of this initiative, over 3 million workers received a significant pay increase in April, with some seeing their annual income rise by up to £1,400. This boost not only enhanced the living standards of lower-paid workers, who are integral to our economy, but also provided a substantial wage rise for young employees and apprentices, who represent our skilled workforce of the future.
Today, in collaboration with the Business Secretary, we are advocating for the Low Pay Commission to build on this success by striving to establish a genuine living wage for all workers.
Our aim is to further reduce the wage gap for 18 to 20-year-olds as we progress towards implementing a unified wage rate for all adult employees in the future. This reflects our commitment to enacting positive changes.
Our dedication to ensuring that work is fairly compensated extends beyond wages. The landmark Employment Rights Bill, currently undergoing parliamentary review, is designed to address issues such as low pay, job insecurity, and poor working conditions.
This bill will introduce greater protection against unjust dismissals, ensure immediate sick pay for employees, and prevent threats of termination for refusing lower wages. Moreover, it will guarantee stable working hours and promote family-friendly and flexible working arrangements, ultimately benefiting businesses by fostering a healthier and more efficient workforce.
Despite opposition from unelected Conservative and Liberal Democrat members, supported by Nigel Farage and Reform, we are resolute in our commitment to deliver these rights as mandated by the electorate.
These progressive reforms, developed in consultation with employers and trade unions, are aligned with the interests of workers, businesses, and economic growth. Whether you are in precarious employment without fixed hours, struggling with low wages, or seeking a fairer system for workers, the Labour government is dedicated to serving your needs and will continue to deliver on its promises.