The salaried class in Britain seems less burdened after the UK government announced a 4.1% rise in the minimum wage in its new budget.
According to the UK Government’s announcement on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, the minimum wage for British workers will rise by £12.71 ($16.67) an hour from April 2026.
While approving this demand from low-paid workers, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said that “the new increase was needed so that those on low incomes are properly rewarded for their hard work.”
Moreover, the increase will benefit 2.4 million workers aged 21 and under and over. In contrast, a further 300,000 apprentices and workers will receive a 6.0%-8.5% rise as the Government continues to phase out lower minimum wages for these groups.
The National Minimum Wage NMW for 16-17 year olds, and those on apprenticeships, will increase by 6% to £8 an hour.
“The cost of living is under the number one issue for working people, and the economy isn’t working well enough for those on the lowest incomes,” said Reeves.
While the hospitality industry says the wage rise will push up prices and force the Government to increase taxes.
Kate Nicholls, the chair of trade body UK Hospitality, said, “Hospitality businesses have reached their limit of absorbing seemingly endless additional costs. They all will simply be passed through to the consumer, ultimately fueling inflation.”
Kate also added, “Bigger pay raises for less experienced workers would make it harder for young people to find work.”
A few employers also said that higher labour costs have contributed to reduced hiring this year, and the unemployment rate has already risen to its highest level since 2021.
However, the Low Pay Commission in the UK, which recommended a 4.1 % increase in wages, seems satisfied with the decision and said their assessment evaluates that the previous increase in minimum wage rate paid to over-21s has not had a significant negative impact on jobs.”
While the Chairperson of the Low Pay Commission and conservative lawmaker Phillippa Stroud said that the body had weighed the challenges to low-paid workers from an increased cost of living against the pressure on employees from tax rises in April.
“In our discussions this year with workers and employers alike, it has been clear that no one is having an easy time,” said Phillippa.
The Government announced that minimum wage rates will increase, giving millions of workers a pay rise.
“Too many people are still struggling to make ends meet, and that has to change,” said Reeves.
Additionally, as the minimum wage increases, the Government has confirmed a few taxes ahead of the UK’s new budget.
- The new tax will include an expansion of the “sugar tax” to include milk-based products
- The expansion of the “Help to Save Scheme,” which incentivizes people on low budget incomes to save money.
- Tourist tax for overnight stays
- Lowering the tax-free allowance for ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts) cash.
- Mansion tax for high-value homes in England.
