Amazon Pay a Higher Basic Salary

Amazon has said that it will be increasing the minimum wage for its employees in the UK and US in a move which will improve pay for over 250,000 workers. Starting from November, employees in London will receive £10.50 an hour, with those outside the capital getting £9.50 an hour. Over in the US the retail giant is increasing its minimum wage to $15 (£11.57) an hour. The change comes after sustained criticism over pay and conditions at the firm which stood in stark contrast to its owner Jeff Bezos’ wealth.

 Bezos, who with personal wealth in excess of $165bn is the world richest man, said that Amazon had "listened to our critics, thought hard about what we wanted to do, and decided we want to lead. We're excited about this change and encourage our competitors and other large employers to join us."

 The move from Amazon comes after widespread strikes by workers across Europe, a point recognised by Jeremy Corbyn in his comments on the increase. The Labour leader cautiously welcomed the pay rise for workers, emphasising that "Amazon didn't gift this, workers organised for it.”

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