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Statement from EFA on National Minimum Wage based on age 1 October 2002 EMPLOYERS QUESTION LEGITIMACY OF A NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE BASED ON AGE Statement from the Employers Forum on Age The Employers Forum on Age (EFA) is calling for a rational debate on whether the existing differential in the minimum wage – based on age – can be justified, particularly given that age discrimination legislation will be in place by 2006. Today, with the announcement of the increase in the minimum wage rates for both employees aged 18-21 (development rate) and those aged 22+, the Employers Forum on Age asks if it is really still appropriate to use ´age´ as a way of calculating pay. Employers will need time to prepare and protect themselves in advance of the legislation. By addressing this issue now, UK business will give itself time to change age-biased practice and will be less vulnerable to charges of discrimination. Sam Mercer, campaign director for the EFA said: ´Today it is illegal to pay a woman less than a man, and to pay a black person less than a white, so why do we still tolerate the attitude that younger workers are worth less than older? It seems odd that such obvious discrimination seems to go unchallenged.´ Denise Keating, head of People Proposition at M&S said: ´Pay should be based on an individual´s ability to do a job. If training is required and this justifies a lower rate of pay, it should be applied to every employee whatever their age.´ Ray Baker, head of Social Responsibility at B&Q said: ´Age discrimination impacts at any age, young or old, and stereotypical attitudes need to be challenged. We know that change will happen and business now needs to start preparing through active debate and careful planning.´ back to the archive |
