MINIMUM wage rates are to increase next year, giving a pay rise for millions of workers, the UK Government has announced.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said she had accepted recommendations from the Low Pay Commission so that those on low incomes are “properly rewarded” for their work.

For those over 21-years-old, the Government said gross annual earnings of a full-time worker on the rate will increase by £900, benefiting around 2.4 million low-paid workers.

From next April, the UK National Living Wage will rise:

by 4.1% to £12.71 an hour for eligible workers aged 21 and over

by 8.5% to £10.85 an hour for 18 to 20-year-olds

by 6% to £8 an hour for 16 to 17-year-olds and those on apprenticeships

The Chancellor said: “I know that the cost of living is still the number one issue for wor

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