If they do so, they will be found out and will face the consequences. A modern economy requires a modern workforce with decent rates of pay. At the STUC meeting he also highlighted the introduction of the National Minimum Wage as one of the Government s core achievements since coming to office. He also explained that the devolution settlement meant that the UK Government remains responsible for numerous areas that are crucial for trade unions and individual workers, such as industrial relations, the New Deal, social security, taxation and macroeconomic policy. Both Mr Reid and the STUC stated that they are keen to develop their contacts both at ministerial and official level.
Trade unions are an asset to our economy and to individual companies.
They are also crucial in protecting the rights of individual workers such as on the National Minimum Wage. I am therefore delighted that today we have had such a very useful meeting with the Scottish Secretary. We will be taking forward, in partnership, a very positive agenda not least in promoting the constructive role which trade unions can play in the modern workplace, securing the maximum possible benefits for Scotland and its people in the context of a competitive global economy. The National Minimum Wage was introduced on 1 April 1999 at a rate of 3.60 an hour. There is a rate of 3.00 an hour for 18-21 year olds, and a development rate of 3.20 available for six months for workers starting a new job with a new employer and receiving accredited training.