Overview

This bill aims to prevent the exploitation of individuals undertaking unpaid work experience by legally prohibiting such arrangements exceeding four weeks. It amends the National Minimum Wage Act 1998 to ensure that those participating in work experience exceeding this timeframe receive the national minimum wage.

Description

The Unpaid Work Experience (Prohibition) Bill amends the National Minimum Wage Act 1998. Specifically:

• It inserts a new clause (3A) into section 3, prohibiting any provision exempting individuals from the national minimum wage for unpaid work experience exceeding four weeks (continuous or non-continuous).
• It adds a new section (41A) to apply the Act to those undertaking work experience for over four weeks, mandating that the Secretary of State issue regulations to this effect.
• These regulations will specifically include provisions for the payment of the national minimum wage to those aged between school leaving age and 26.
• The definition of "employer" is broadened to include any organisation providing work experience, and "work experience" is clearly defined to encompass various activities aimed at gaining workplace experience.

The bill applies across the United Kingdom and comes into force immediately upon passing.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to increase government spending due to the requirement to pay the national minimum wage to those undertaking work experience exceeding four weeks. The exact figure is not specified in the provided text.

Groups Affected

This bill will primarily affect:

• Individuals undertaking unpaid work experience: Those in unpaid work experience schemes lasting more than four weeks will now be entitled to the national minimum wage.
• Employers and organizations offering work experience: They will now be legally obliged to pay the national minimum wage to those completing more than four weeks of unpaid work experience.
• The government: The bill will lead to increased government spending (though the specific amount is unclear) as the cost of paying the minimum wage will now fall on employers or ultimately, the government if employers fail to comply.

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