Moray SNP News

RICHARD LOCHHEAD COMMENTS ON INCREASE OF REAL LIVING WAGE TO £10.90 IN SCOTLAND

Moray’s MSP, Richard Lochhead, has responded to the announcement that the real living wage in Scotland has increased to £10.90. 

The announcement of the new living wage rate – which rises from £9.90 – was brought forward from November this year in recognition of the cost of living crisis. The new rate of £10.90 an hour means full time Living Wage employees will earn almost £3000 more annually than if they were paid the minimum wage set by the UK Government.

Commenting Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“The rise in the real Living Wage rate to £10.90 an hour will undoubtedly be welcomed by workers on the lowest incomes as it will help them cope with the soaring cost of living.

“We should be proud that Scotland leads the way in payment of the real Living Wage and the number of accredited employers here in Moray and across the country continues to grow.

“These are challenging times for businesses as well as workers and I know that some businesses already dealing with the impacts of Brexit, the pandemic, and now rising energy prices, will feel the new rate is a challenge. However, the Scottish Government is committed to working with the business community to look at what more can be done to help them deal with increasing costs.

“Moray’s economy is a low wage one and I’m aware that many workers here are still earning less than the real Living Wage. I’d encourage local businesses to consider whether they can become an accredited Living Wage employer, which not only delivers for workers but brings many benefits for businesses including better recruitment and retention, less sickness absence and a more motivated and productive workforce.”