10. DARIEN FENTON (Labour) Link to this
to the Minister of Labour
Does she agree with the Prime Minister that it would not be easy to live on the minimum wage?
Does she think it would be easy to live on a youth minimum wage, given that those people who are on the current minimum wage are already struggling to survive?
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
We are aware that for those people on the minimum wage, budgeting is tight. But we do want people to earn a lot more than the minimum wage by developing their skills, being given a job, and being promoted to more senior roles.
If her Government is aspirational, as her Prime Minister claims, why is she considering lowering minimum wages for young people rather than lifting wages for all workers?
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
That question relies on a false premise. No decision has been made to lower the minimum wage—or the youth rates related thereto.
Jacinda ArdernWhat is having a greater impact on youth employment levels, based on the advice she has received: minimum wage rates, or her Government’s lack of a plan to create jobs?
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
We have a cogent plan to increase and improve our economy, which includes growing the number of jobs. We would rather see young people have a job than be priced out of getting a job.
Hon KATE WILKINSON Link to this
Our plan is basically around building a stronger economy. I can understand that members from that party do not understand that, but we do.