The UK Labour Government has announced a significant boost to wages, with 3,700 workers in Bridgend & Porthcawl set to benefit directly from an increase in the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage. Across Wales, up to 160,000 individuals will see a real-terms pay rise, marking a major step forward in improving financial security for working people.
Under the new wage increases, full-time workers on the National Living Wage will receive an additional £1,400 per year, while apprentices will see their pay rise by 18%. Young workers aged 18-20 will gain up to £2,500 more annually, providing a substantial financial uplift and improving opportunities for the next generation of workers.
These wage increases form a key part of Labour’s Plan for Change, a strategic approach aimed at raising living standards, ensuring economic growth, and fostering financial stability for families across the UK.
Chris Elmore MP Welcomes the Pay Rise
Chris Elmore, Member of Parliament for Bridgend & Porthcawl, praised the wage increases, emphasizing Labour’s dedication to supporting working people:
“As a Party, Labour has always been on the side of working people, and I am immensely proud that the UK Labour Government will raise wages for around 3,700 workers in Bridgend & Porthcawl. This will make a huge difference to livelihoods across our local communities after 14 years of stagnant wages.”
“Together with the 26 other Welsh Labour MPs, I have been championing these wage increases to provide people in Wales with the opportunity to earn well-paid, secure work. For a full-time worker on the National Living Wage in Bridgend & Porthcawl, this means a £1,400 pay rise, and for apprentices, an 18% increase—demonstrating our commitment to supporting the next generation of workers.”
A Fairer Approach to Wages
The UK Government has also reformed the Low Pay Commission, ensuring that, for the first time, wage recommendations take into account the cost of living and inflation. This crucial step will help ensure that wages genuinely reflect the financial pressures faced by workers.
Additionally, the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, a cornerstone of Labour’s Plan to Make Work Pay, is set to provide an extra £600 annually to some of the lowest-paid workers, further reinforcing Labour’s commitment to a fairer and more prosperous economy.
These changes highlight a decisive shift in government policy, placing workers at the heart of economic recovery and ensuring that hard work is properly rewarded.
