Britain's adult minimum wage is set to rise by 3.9 per cent in a pay announcement expected from ministers

From the Newshound archive · first published 27 October 2026.

John Healey is expected to announce a 3.9 per cent increase to the adult minimum wage, lifting it from its current rate in a move set to benefit millions of low-paid workers across Britain.

The increase follows pressure from unions demanding wages keep pace with rising living costs.

A 3.9 per cent rise would add hundreds of pounds a year to the pay of workers on the lowest legal rate.

Critics are already warning the hike could push small businesses to cut hours or shed jobs rather than absorb higher wage bills.