The adult rate jumps by 15p to £6.08 from 1st October 2011, by 6p to £4.98 for 18- to 20-year-olds, and up by 4p to £3.68 for 16- and 17-year-olds, while the apprentice rate goes up by 10p to £2.60.

The minimum wage change follows a recommendation by the Low Pay Commission which was accepted by ministers in April.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said at the time: "More than 890,000 of Britain's lowest-paid workers will gain from these changes. They are appropriate, reflecting the current economic uncertainty while at the same time protecting the UK's lowest-paid workers."

Does this affect you? If you think you are paid no more than the minimum wage rate, then please discuss this rise with your employer. If they do not paid you at least the minimum wage they could face a fine.

The minimum wage was first introduced in 1999 at £3.60 an hour for adults.

For more information visit : Direct Gov

Published: 02 Oct 2011