date: 9 September 2008

embargo: For immediate release

TUC welcomes increase in apprentice pay

Welcoming the announcement today (Tuesday) by the Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills John Denham that the minimum weekly pay for apprentices will increase from £80 to £95, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'Today's announcement will be a welcome boost for the thousands of low-paid apprentices, particularly women, who are struggling to make ends meet.

'Pay increases will help more people to complete their training and boost the reputation of apprenticeships. Employers will also benefit from a greater number of skilled employees and as a result more organisations will be attracted to the ever improving apprenticeship brand.

'This is a victory for the TUC's campaign for better apprentice pay. But, as strong supporters of apprenticeships, the TUC will continue to campaign for higher standards and further increases in apprentice pay will help achieve this.'

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Press release (200 words) issued 9 Sep 2008