I became an MP to fight for the rights of working people in Harlow. For me, the National Minimum Wage is one of this Government’s proudest achievements.

This month the National Minimum Wage will rise again.  The rate is rising to £5.73 per hour for workers aged 22 and over, £4.77 for 18-21 year olds and £3.53 for those aged 16 and 17. This represents the ninth increase since the introduction of the minimum wage. It is estimated that 80,000 people in the East of England will benefit from this increase.

When families are struggling with rising fuel, energy and food prices my view is that it is more important than ever to have a rising National Minimum Wage. The Conservatives opposed the minimum wage when it came in ten years ago, saying it would cost the country 2 million jobs. But the reality is totally different, with an extra 2.3 million jobs created since then. 

With the National Minimum Wage there is no excuse not to pay up. If you think a rogue employer is not paying up then get in touch with me on 01279 409706 or call the national minimum wage helpline on 0845 6000 678. 

Of course, the vast majority of employers in Harlow play fairly and make a vital contribution to the local economy.  But to the minority of rogue employers who don't, there is a very simple message - there are no excuses not to pay the National Minimum Wage.