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<p>Many interns are already entitled to the National Minimum Wage. The term “intern”
is not defined in any legislation: entitlement to the minimum wage depends on whether
or not an individual is a worker for minimum wage purposes.</p><p> </p><p>The National
Minimum Wage applies to all workers unless a specific exemption applies. If an intern
is a worker they will be entitled to the minimum wage. An applicable exemption would
be students in further or higher education performing work-experience for a period
not exceeding 12 months which is part of their studies. It can be legitimate for employers
to offer unpaid or ‘expenses-only’ opportunities in some circumstances – in particular
where the individual is acting as a volunteer.</p><p> </p><p>Given this dependency
on employment status, it is vital that employers and workers understand how this is
determined. This is why last month, the Business Secretary announced a review of employment
status, looking at how the system could be clarified, providing transparency for both
individuals and employers. This is an internal review and findings will be presented
to ministers early next year.</p><p> </p><p>There are currently no plans to specifically
consider individuals covered by the Ministerial and Other Salaries Act 1975.</p><p>
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