The Low Pay Commission has launched a consultation asking employers, workers, and others to provide their perspective on the “broad economic and labour market conditions that workers and businesses are facing” as it considers the National Minimum Wage and National Living wage rates that will apply from April next year.

The Commission asks how the recent increase in the National Living Wage – combined with the rise in Employer National Insurance – has affected business, and invites views on the level at which the National Living Wage should be set next year.

The consultation also addresses the increase in the 18-20 year-old Rate, as well as the Apprentice Rate, asking respondents about the anticipated effects of such increases and, in the case of apprentices, what the outlook is for their recruitment and employment.

More generally, the consultation also invites views on the “economic outlook and business conditions in the UK for the period up to April 2026”, including: (a) the conditions in particular sectors; (b) the effects of Government policies and interventions; and (c) the current state of the labour market, recruitment, and retention.

The consultation closes on 30 June 2025. To read more, click here.