Low Pay Commission interim chair appointed

The government has appointed Sir George Bain as the interim chair of the Low Pay Commission, the body which advises on the rate of the national minimum wage (NMW).

Bain was previously chair between 1997 and 2002, but is returning on a short-term basis while a search gets under way to find a permanent successor for Paul Myners, who stepped down to take up a new role with the Treasury as Minister for the City.

Employment relations minister Pat McFadden said: "The Low Pay Commission is instrumental in ensuring the minimum wage remains a great success. It provides the government with independent expert advice, based firmly on evidence. George's wealth of experience will ensure this important work continues over the next few months."

The appointment is part-time for up to six months. Bain will not be paid for his time during this period.

The commission monitors and evaluates the impact of the NMW, with particular reference to the effect on pay, employment and competitiveness in low-paying sectors and small firms, and the effect on different groups of workers.

The current adult rate for the NMW is £5.73 per hour.