London, (Shahzad Ali) __ The government of the United Kingdom has declared that millions of workers nationwide will receive a salary increase commencing in April, in anticipation of the Budget to be presented on Wednesday.

According to the official statement, the minimum hourly wage for employees aged 21 and above will be raised by 50p, resulting in a new rate of £12.71 per hour.

For individuals aged 18 to 20, wages will be increased by 85p to £10.85 per hour, while those under 18 years of age and apprentices will receive an increase of 45p, raising their hourly rate to £8.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that approximately 2.7 million individuals are expected to benefit from this increase, which will be implemented from April of the upcoming year.

Nevertheless, business organisations have cautioned that further increments in the minimum wage might lead to hiring freezes or decreases in recruitment activities.

Furthermore, last year experienced a notable rise in minimum wages — 6.7% for persons aged 21 and above, and 16.3% for workers aged 18 to 20 — alongside increased National Insurance contributions for employers.

The government has also confirmed that the “sugar tax” will be extended to include milk-based beverages.

Additionally, the Help to Save scheme, designed to assist low-income earners in saving money, will be further extended.

Potential additional announcements in Wednesday’s Budget may encompass modifications to stamp duty.