The rise in the minimum wage equates to 1.8%, which is slightly lower than the typical rise in earnings and the current rate of inflation, which represents the rising cost of living.

In Brighton & Hove the council has increased all its staff wages to the Living Wage of £7.20 per hour and is encouraging businesses to do the same.

If we look at other countries it is instructive to look at the rate in terms of purchasing power parity [PPP] to allow for the different costs of living. Exchange rates as at October 25th have been used.

• France £7.86
• Australia £7.73
• Netherlands £7.37
• Belgium £6.98
• Ireland £6.86
• New Zealand £6.31
• UK £6.19
• USA [Federal minimum] £5.67
• Greece £4.16
• Spain £3.62
• Portugal £2.87