National Minimum Wage 1999 - 2009: Ten years of fairer treatment at work

This week marks ten years since the introduction by the Labour Government of Britain's first ever National Minimum Wage. Pat McFadden MP today celebrated the introduction and welcomed three new key rights which come into effect in April.

"I became an MP to fight for the rights of working people in and I'll always do what I can to make sure people in Wolverhampton South-East get a fair deal.  I've always supported the Labour government's efforts to bring more fairness at work and I'm pleased that from April three new key rights which as a Minister I have played a part in - supported by my colleagues in Parliament – securing and putting in to effect.

"It's only right that hard working people get a decent amount of time off and the chance to balance work and home life. So from April statutory holiday entitlement will increase by 4 days to 5.6 weeks for full-time workers (28 days), pro rata for part-timers.   And more people in  Wolverhampton, Bilston and the surrounding area will now have the right to request flexible working as from April it will be extended to parents of children aged 16 or under."

Pat also gave a warning to rogue employers that they face tough action if they underpay staff.

"In April tough new powers to take action against rogue employers who underpay staff come into force.  Every worker should earn a fair wage for a fair day's work - there is no excuse not to pay up. I supported and voted for the Employment Act because I wanted to see tougher action on rogue employers who con their staff.

"Rogue employers need to be exposed. If you think a rogue employer is not paying up then get in touch with me on 01902 405762 or on mcfaddenp@parliament.uk or call the national minimum wage helpline on 0845 6000 678. And don't worry, you don’t have to give your name or details to them if you don't want to."