Living wage among considerations by government in 2017
The Policy and Reform Minister says introducing a Manx national living wage is a real possibility, following a review of the minimum wage system in 2017.
The UK government currently pegs its living wage at £7.20 an hour - based on the average cost of living nationwide.
Chancellor Philip Hammond announced in last week's Autumn Statement that that's set to rise by 30 pence next April - prompting warnings from the OECD that a post-Brexit economy may not be strong enough to handle such an increase.
The UK Living Wage Foundation estimates the actual cost of day-to-day transactions is higher, and suggests a true living wage would be closer to £8.45/hr.
The minimum wage here on the Island is £7 an hour for those aged 21 and over; a similar review is being conducted at present, by way of a public consultation.
Chris Thomas says evidence suggests the current level is too low:
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