Minimum wage rises across UK, Nova Scotia, Canada

As the UK prepares for the upcoming Budget, Labour leaders Rachel Reeves and Sir Keir Starmer have not dismissed the possibility of raising employers’ national insurance contributions. This discussion aligns with a broader effort to gather evidence and recommendations regarding the living wage and economic support. In Canada, many workers will receive a raise as the federal minimum wage will increase from $17.30 to $17.75 on April 1, 2025, reflecting adjustments for inflation. This increase is seen as a step towards reducing income inequality, although experts note that it still falls short of a living wage. Additionally, Nova Scotia is implementing significant minimum wage hikes, with increases scheduled for April and October, as part of efforts to address inflation and support workers. The overall wage trends highlight an ongoing response to economic pressures in both regions.