The Government announced on 28 October 2026 that it has accepted in full the Low Pay Commission's recommendations for minimum wage rates from April 2027. The National Living Wage, which applies to workers aged 21 and over, will rise 3.9 per cent, or 50p, to £13.21 an hour.

The rate for 18-20 year olds will increase 42p to £11.27, while the 16-17 year old and apprentice rates will both rise 31p to £8.31. The accommodation offset will go up 43p to £11.53 a day. All the increases are 3.9 per cent.

The Commission said its National Living Wage recommendation falls short of the two-thirds-of-median-earnings reference point in its remit but still makes progress toward it, and that commissioners remain committed to reaching that point when economic conditions allow. It judged the rate will protect pay in real terms over the period set out in the remit. The LPC said it recommended pausing on aligning the 18-20 rate with the adult rate, citing slower demand for young workers. The recommendations were submitted to the Government on 23 October 2026.