The main national minimum wage rate will increase to £4.50 per hour from 1 October 2003, a rise of 30p. This rate will apply from a worker’s 22nd birthday.
The development rate, for operatives aged 18-21, rises from £3.60 to £3.80 per hour. This lower rate also applies to workers aged 22 and over who start a new job with a new employer and undergo accredited training, although it can only be paid for the first six months of the new job.

The national minimum wage does not currently apply to operatives under the age of 18. Apprentices are entitled to the rate 12 months after reaching the age of 18 if the apprenticeship started at 16, 17 or 18. If it was started between the ages of 19 and 25, the national minimum wage is to be paid 12 months after commencement of the apprenticeship.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor