Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of any job losses in the hospitality sector as a result of above-inflation minimum wage increases announced in the Budget 2025.

The minimum wage rates are set based on independent advice from the Low Pay Commission (LPC), which consider the cost of living, and the impact on businesses, competitiveness, and the economy.

The Department will publish a comprehensive impact assessment in the New Year. This assessment will provide detailed analysis for each minimum wage rate, the projected number of workers who will benefit and the estimated costs to businesses.