The national minimum wage hourly rate for adults is to climb to £6.08 in October 2011.

The rise represents a 15p and a 2.5 per cent increase and was recommended by the Low Pay Commission.

Despite the economic uncertainties, the LPC said that the decision for the increase was a unanimous one.

The hourly rate for employees aged between 18 and 20 will rise by 6p (1.2 per cent) to £4.98.

For workers aged between 16 and 17, the rate goes up by 4p (1.1 per cent) to £3.68. While for apprentices there is to be a 10p (4 per cent) increase to £2.60.