8:11AM, Mon Sep 10, 2012

£7.20 An Hour: A Living Wage For Newcastle’s Lowest Paid?

By Joe Daunt and James Craggs Location: Newcastle

Video: Is it possible to live on the national minimum wage?

Newcastle City Council is hoping to introduce a minimum living wage of £7.20 for its lowest paid members of staff.

The national minimum wage is currently £6.08.

On Monday September 10, business leaders, academics and members of the voluntary sector will discuss the issue at an event called Let’s Talk Fair Pay.

The city council set up a panel last year to examine the costs and benefits of a living wage, which reported its findings and recommendations in April 2012.

Newcastle City Council Leader Cllr Nick Forbes said: "Paying a living wage is an investment in people and families and a major part of our work to tackle inequality.

“A living wage makes business sense too, as those on low incomes are more likely to spend their money locally which can safeguard and create jobs in the North East’s economy.

“The council is just one part of this. To make a big impact it’s important that a living wage is implemented beyond the council in other parts of the public and private sector.”

The Let’s Talk Event is being held from 3pm-4.30pm at the Civic Centre.