Written questions

Hospitality Industry: Living Wage and Young People

Commons · Question 120773 · Tabled 16 Mar 2026 · Department for Business and Trade · Official record

Answered 19 Mar 2026

Question

Asked by Gregory Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the level of dependence of the hospitality industry on younger employees and those paid the National Living Wage.

Answer

Answered by Kate Dearden, 19 Mar 2026

Hospitality employs many young people - with ONS statistics reporting that around 42% of all hospitality workers are between the ages of 16-24 (2023). That is why, from April 2026, foundation apprenticeships will expand into hospitality, with up to £2,000...