Tories call for 5-year freeze on minimum wage to tackle youth unemployment

According to The Guardian, the call came in a report from the Prosperity Institute thinktank, which carries an endorsement from Andrew Sharpe, the shadow business minister.

Labour says idea is ‘tin-eared’ as report says fixing rate will cost low-paid workers almost £9,000 over five years A shadow minister has called for the government to freeze the minimum wage for five years, a move that could cost low-paid workers almost £9,000.

This politics story centres on the United Kingdom. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include Prosperity Institute and Andrew Sharpe.

Why it matters

Political decisions and disputes like this can influence policy, public services and the direction of government.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

16 Oct 2026, 11:30 IST

Key names

Prosperity Institute, Andrew Sharpe

Section

Politics

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianTories call for 5-year freeze on minimum wage to tackle youth unemployment 16 Oct, 11:30

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

Spotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced