'Number of challenges' when calculating Isle of Man Living Wage

Poverty committee hears from head of Statistics Isle of Man

The head of Statistics Isle of Man says there are a number of challenges when calculating the Island's Living Wage.

The hourly rate, which represents the level of pay necessary to allow people the basic opportunities and choices for them to participate in society, stands at £13.05.

It's based on a 'basket of goods' measurement from the UK with some slight amendments.

The 'items' that make up the measurement are food (including allowances for occasional takeaways and meals out), alcohol, clothing, housing, household goods and services, personal goods and services, transport, and leisure.

Consideration is being given to bringing the Minimum Wage in line with the Living Wage in 2026. 

Dr Kelvin Corlett, appearing at a hearing of the Tynwald Select Committee on Poverty, was asked whether the Island could produce its own 'basket of goods' measurement to produce a more Manx-tailored Living Wage: