Millions of British workers will benefit from an increase in the national minimum wage and additional annual leave entitlements, which come into effect on Monday, 1 October.

Minister of State for Employment Relations, Pat McFadden, said the new pay and leave conditions would benefit the most vulnerable members of the workforce, improve working conditions and help boost productivity.

Under the changes:
* The minimum wage will increase from £5.35 to £5.52 an hour for workers aged 22 and over. There will also be increases from £4.45 to £4.60 for 18-21 year olds, and from £3.30 to £3.40 for 16-17 year olds.

* The minimum annual leave entitlement will increase from 20 days to 24 days for full-time workers. A further increase to 28 days will take place on 1 April 2009.