The minimum wage is a legal right covering all employees working in the United Kingdom above compulsory school leaving age. The rate is reviewed every year, and any increases take place in October. The rate varies depending on the age of the worker.
The National Minimum Wage increased as of October 2011:
The main rate for workers aged 22 and over is £6.08 an hour.
The development rate for 18-21 year olds is £4.98 an hour.
The development rate for 16-17 year old is £3.68 an hour.
For more details on the current rates for younger people go to National minimum wage.