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UK Youth Jobs Hit by Minimum Wage Hikes
15 Feb
Summary
- Youth unemployment rose to 13.7% in the three months to November.
- Minimum wage for 21-22 year olds increased by 33% over three years.
- Policymaker links youth job losses directly to wage increases.

Youth unemployment in Britain has seen a significant increase, reaching 13.7% for 18-24 year olds in the three months leading up to November. This figure marks a rise from 10.2% three years prior, reaching its highest point since late 2020.
Bank of England policymaker Catherine Mann has indicated that significant hikes in minimum wages for younger workers are a key factor behind this trend. She specifically pointed to the 33% increase in the National Living Wage for 21-22 year olds, bringing it to 12.71 pounds per hour. Additionally, the rate for 18-20 year olds rose by 46% to 10 pounds per hour.



