Miniser cites cost of hiring young workers
MHKs have been told minimum wage rates for younger workers in the Island reflect the higher cost of employing them.
Currently, adult workers aged between 18 and 20 are paid £6.65 per hour, 35p less than those aged 21 and over.
That margin was described in the House of Keys today (6 Dec) as an anachronism by Douglas North member David Ashford.
However, economic development minister Laurence Skelly said the desire to raise earnings for the low-paid had to be balanced with ensuring rates were affordable for employers.
The Minimum Wage Committee is reviewing current arrangements, with any recommendations for changes to rates implemented by April 2017. Submissions must be received by 9 December.
Mr Skelly told the Keys there was wide consensus that lower rates helped younger people into work - and in many areas, hiring inexperienced workers added to firms' costs:
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