Retail trade union Usdaw has provided written evidence to the Low Pay Commission (LPC) on minimum wage rates. The LPC’s annual call for evidence closes today and responses will help shape the recommendations they will make to the Government this autumn on the 2022 minimum wage rates.
Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, says: “Today we are providing the Low Pay Commission with evidence of why we need a new deal for workers that includes at least £10 per hour, an end to youth rates and more secure employment.
“The impact of the Coronavirus crisis continues to be felt across our economy and society, even as we emerge from the current restrictions.
“Workers in retail, distribution and many other low-paid industries have shown just how vital they are to keeping the UK economy going during a time of extreme pressure. As we emerge from the pandemic, these key workers must not be forgotten and it can only be right that their contribution is recognised with a wage they can live on.
“The impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on the hours available to workers varied significantly across different sectors. Workers deserve a right to a normal hours contract to end the uncertainty many face.
“The priority must be to bring confidence back to the economy and ensure that people are spending again, by putting more money in people’s pockets. The National Living Wage should be increased at least in line with the planned target to reach 66% of median earnings by 2024.
“Usdaw continues to campaign for an immediate National Living Wage of at least £10 per hour for all workers, regardless of age, so youth rates are abolished as soon as possible. If you’re old enough to do the job, you’re old enough to be paid the rate for the job.
“As the country tries to recover from the pandemic we need a new deal for workers that includes a minimum wage of at least £10 per hour, more secure contracts and an end to rip-off youth pay. The best way to thank key workers is to ensure fairness at work.”
Usdaw’s New Deal for Workers calls for:
· A minimum wage of at least £10 per hour for all workers, ending rip-off youth rates and providing a living wage.
· Minimum contract of 16 hours per week, for everyone who wants it, that reflects normal hours worked and a ban on zero-hour contracts.
· Better sick pay for all workers, from day one, at average earnings.
· Protection at work – respect for shopworkers, abuse is not a part of the job.
· A proper social security system, Universal Credit does not provide a safety net.
· Job security, with day one employment rights for unfair dismissal and redundancy.
· Fair treatment and equality for all workers, including equal pay.
· A voice at work, stop rogue employers refusing to engage with trade unions and end ‘fire and rehire’.
