Minimum wage set to rise to £6.20

The minister approved plans to increase the minimum wage by 12p

Recommendations that would see the minimum wage in Jersey rise to £6.20 per hour have been approved by the island's social security minister.

The increase of 2% would see the minimum wage go up 12p from the current hourly rate of £6.08.

The Jersey Employment Forum had called for the increase, which would come into effect from April.

Deputy Ian Gorst said: "A £6.20 minimum wage is sensible and appropriate in the current economic climate."

Politicians in Jersey could debate the proposed rates early in 2010.

Deputy Gorst said: "I am mindful that businesses must have adequate notice of the new rates, so preparations are under way to amend the relevant legislation and I anticipate bringing the legislation to the States in January.

"It is important that a balance is struck between improving the minimum wage and protecting jobs.

"It remains my aim however that, when Jersey comes out of this recessionary period, we must continue to move the minimum wage towards 45% of average weekly earnings."