South Cambridgeshire Labour welcomes the 10% rise in the real living wage – but says more Cambridgeshire employers should pay it

The voluntary Real Living Wage is to increase by 10% to reflect the ongoing cost-of-living crisis for workers following the highest tax hikes in 70 years, rampant inflation and the biggest interest rate hikes in years due to the catastrophic mismanagement of the economy by the Tories. The Living Wage Foundation said its rates will increase to £12 an hour outside London – a rise of £1.10.

The voluntary rate, which applies to everyone over the age of 18, is higher than the government’s statutory National Living Wage for over-23s (currently £10.42 an hour).

South Cambridgeshire Labour’s Local Government Spokesperson Luke Viner, said:

“The cost of living crisis is far from over. More than two in five low-paid workers say they regularly use a food bank and almost as many report falling behind on household bills.”

“The government’s minimum wage is not enough – so it’s vital that Cambridgeshire employers (especially those in the public sector) consider becoming accredited Real Living Wage employers. We commend those that have taken this step – like Cambridge City Council – and we call on both South and East Cambs District Councils to do the same. Low paid staff delivering contracted-out services to councils are particularly at risk.”

“Local authorities should lead by example when it comes to pay, terms and conditions – and gaining Real Living Wage accreditation sends a positive message to employers across the whole county, creating a positive ripple effect via their procurement processes.”

“It was the last Labour government that first delivered a national minimum wage in 1998 – and an incoming Labour government would introduce a new ‘genuine living wage’ that takes into account the real cost of living, if Labour wins the next general election.”