MLP calls for support for those paying living wage

The party's only Tynwald member, MLC David Cretney, has written to a committee considering changes to the minimum wage.

 

It's asked for views on upping the current rates, which currently stand at £7 an hour for over-21s, £6.65 for over-18s, and £5.40 for younger workers.

 

Mr Cretney says substantial wage rises are needed to combat government "stealth taxes" and the high cost of living.

 

The Manx Labour Party wants a higher minimum wage than in the UK - citing hikes in local authority rents, and expensive private rents here.

 

The MLC points to the UK's voluntary living wage rates of £9.75 per hour in London and £8.45 elsewhere.

 

He claims up to 80 per cent of London's employers who pay a living wage think it's had a positive impact and is calling on the government to support Manx companies who pay a living wage.

 

Mr Cretney says the forthcoming Government programme should set a timescale to bring the idea about.