The Government today offered confirmation regarding brought increases in the national minimum wage, which means that the adult rate rises to £5.93 an hour in October.

The 13p increase was anticipated by the Labor Government, as was a 9p boost in the rate for 18-to 20-year-olds to £4.92 and 7p more for 16-and 17-year-olds to £3.64.

Employment Relations Minister, Edward Davey said that the increase in minimum wage would not place jobs in danger.

He said that the increases to the national minimum wage in the current year are suitable for the financial climate.

They will maintain a balance between helping the lowly paid at the same time not jeopardizing their service.

Mr. Davey cautioned that future increases in the minimum wage might be inferior because of the effect on small entities. The minimum adult hourly wage will increase by 2% in October to £5.93 an hour.

The boost is in order with a suggestion from the Low Pay Commission, but it lags far behind the selling price index measure of inflation, which is normally used as a yardstick for wage rises.

Younger people between the ages of 18-20 will get a 9p raise to £4.92 an hour, whilst 16 and 17 year-olds will obtain £3.64 an hour, 7p more than in the past.