Working time and minimum wage
Strict minimum wage and working time regulations are set out under UK employment law.
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Working time and minimum wage
Working Time and Minimum Wage Regulations Scotland
Strict minimum wage and working time regulations are set out under UK employment law.
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) sets the minimum amount per hour that most workers in the UK are entitled to be paid. Depending on employees’ age, there are different levels of National Minimum Wage.
Employees are entitled to the National Minimum Wage even if they have signed a contract agreeing for it to be paid at a lower rate
Current NMW rates
There are different levels of NMW, depending on your age and whether you are an apprentice. The current rates are:
- £6.19 – the main rate for workers aged 21 and over
- £4.98 – the 18-20 rate
- £3.68 – the 16-17 rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18
- £2.65 – the apprentice rate, for apprentices under 19 or 19 or over and in the
- first year of their apprenticeship
New rates from 1 October 2013
The following rates will come into effect on 1 October 2013:
- the adult rate will increase by 12p to £6.31 an hour
- the rate for 18-20 year olds will increase by 5p to £5.03 an hour
- the rate for 16-17 year olds will increase by 4p to £3.72 an hour
- the apprentice rate will increase by 3p to £2.68 an hour.
Working Time Laws Scotland
Under UK employment law, adult workers cannot be forced to work more than 48 hours a week on average, generally calculated over a 17 week period.
Certain types of employment are excluded by the regulations, such as those employed in the armed forces or emergency services whose working week will not be covered by the working time limits.
Employees 18 years old and older can choose to opt out of the 48 hour limit. For this to be effective this agreement must be voluntary and in writing.
Employment Law Solicitors in Glasgow
Based in Glasgow, Raeside Chisholm’s employment lawyers advise both employees & employers on working time and minimum wage legal regulation in Scotland. To discuss working time and minimum wage legal regulation or any other aspects of employment law, please speak to one of the top employment lawyers in Glasgow by completing our online enquiry form or contact us on 0141 673 1538.
