Kemi Badenoch Urges Halt to Minimum Wage Increases Amid Business Concerns
Kemi Badenoch has argued against further increases to the minimum wage, citing feedback from businesses reporting staff losses following past wage rises. She emphasized the importance of listening to businesses and focusing on reducing government burdens such as rates, taxes, and regulation rather than mandating wage increases.
Badenoch advocates for stopping government intervention in minimum wage decisions, suggesting that job creation comes from businesses and not ministers. This stance is presented in the context of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' announcement of a 4.1% increase in the minimum wage to £12.71 for workers over 21, with adjusted rates for 18-20 year olds at £10.85 and for 16-17 year olds and apprentices at £8 starting from April.
She also framed Labour's welfare policy as setting the wrong balance between welfare and business, referencing her speech titled "Getting Britain Working." An illustrative anecdote was shared of a cafe owner, Ruth, who emotionally reacted to rising staff costs and increased taxes, highlighting the burdens faced by small firms.
The party plans a comprehensive review of welfare eligibility conditions and how the system handles the era of diagnosis.
