Great Britain: minimum wage for apprentices?

Combat exploitation. This was a recommendation made by the Low Pay Commission in its 2009 report. Currently, apprentices under the age of 19 and those over 19 but during their first year as apprentices aren’t covered by the law which guarantees minimum pay. There is only minimum wage for apprenticeship contracts signed with the Learning and Skills Council, a national council ensuring that training and education for people over 16 match the needs of collectivities and businesses. It amounts to ₤80 (€84) per week (up to ₤95 - €112 as of August 2009). Consequently, minimum wage would be introduced for all apprentices. Secretary of State for Business Pat McFadden explained: “The new arrangements must give apprentices a fair deal and protect them from exploitation, but at the same not impose undue burdens that would deter businesses from taking them on.”
Enjoy this article for free while you’re in your trial period
You have access to our content for 1 month.

. Consequently, minimum wage would be introduced for all apprentices. Secretary of State for Business Pat McFadden explained: “The new arrangements must give apprentices a fair deal and protect them from exploitation, but at the same not impose undue burdens that would deter businesses from taking them on.”

Fewer places but enhanced quality. This is obviously not what employers think about this measure could translate into fewer apprenticeship places. Charles Cotton, adviser at the Chartered Ins

Do you have information to share with us?
What you absolutely must read this week
The essential content of the week selected by the editorial team.
See all
France: sectors feel economic slowdown to differing degrees
The latest data on France’s occupational sectors (branches professionnelles), covering the year 2023, show how employment trends are shaping workplace dynamics. After a more favourable period for...
United Kingdom: Parliament finally passes Employment Rights Bill
The UK Labour government's flagship reform of employment rights was passed by both houses on 16 December after a turbulent parliamentary process. The bill introduces numerous changes to labour...
18 December 2025
EU: social partners in telecoms sign joint statement on AI
On 16 December, the social partners in Europe's telecommunications sector unveiled a joint statement on artificial intelligence. They propose an action plan for skills and commit to raising...
18 December 2025
EU: MEPs demand directive on algorithmic management
Members of the European Parliament have called for a directive on algorithmic management. Such legislation would introduce obligations for companies to inform employees, assess health and safety...
17 December 2025
Most viewed articles of the month on mind HR
What readers clicked on the most last month.
What readers clicked on the most last month.
1
Spain: new terms and conditions for in-company training contracts
On 25 November, Spain's Council of Ministers approved a regulation on training contracts. This text defines the terms and conditions for hosting work-study students and interns doing professional...
2
France: sectors feel economic slowdown to differing degrees
The latest data on France’s occupational sectors (branches professionnelles), covering the year 2023, show how employment trends are shaping workplace dynamics. After a more favourable period for...
3
Germany: apprenticeship openings fall sharply in manufacturing and chemicals
From 1 January 2026, Dutch collective agreements for temporary employment agencies will alter the employment conditions of temp workers. Agencies will be required to pay these workers at least the...