66-54

Sue Bradford's Minimum Wage (New Entrants) Amendment Bill passed its third reading yesterday, 66 - 54. So, from April 1 next year, young workers will be eligible for adult wages after three months or 200 hours employment, whichever is shorter. In addition to the usual suspects who oppose any improvement in worker's pay or conditions, the Maori Party voted against on the principle that the bill did not grant full equality. I can understand that sentiment, and the compromise bill deserves every ounce of the vitriol they heaped on it - but its still a massive improvement over the current situation, and I'm glad it passed.