Workers quizzed on low pay

They will speak to employers and staff at a care home

Staff at four Cornish firms were questioned by members of the Low Pay Commission on Wednesday.

It was part of a review of the minimum wage being carried out for the government.

Two members of the Low Pay Commission, Willy Brown and Paul Gates, visited a number of businesses in the Redruth area.

They spoke to employers and staff at two small firms, as well as at a laundry and a care home.

Touring country

The aim was to assess the impact of the minimum wage which the government is planning to review.

The minimum wage is currently £4.20 for people over 21, but the rates are due to go up next month.

The commission's members include company executives, union leaders and academics.

Commissioners will be touring the country as part of their research.

Cornwall's low pay and high unemployment were among factors which helped the county qualify for European Objective One status.