The current rates are:

£5.93 – the main rate for workers aged 21 and over

£4.92 - the 18-20 rate

£3.64 – the 16-17 rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18

£2.50 – the apprentice rate, for apprentices under 19 or 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

The NMW rates are reviewed each year and from 1 October 2011:

The main rate for workers aged 21 and over will increase to £6.08

The 18-20 rate will increase to £4.98

The 16-17 rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18 will increase to £3.68

The apprentice rate, for apprentices under 19 or 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship will increase to £2.60