EAST Lancashire youngsters could be earning more cash in the New Year after unions put pressure on the Government to extend the minimum wage.

The Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers is spearheading the campaign to get a minimum wage for 16- and 17-year-olds.

The UK's fifth largest trade union, with members across East Lancashire, welcomed Government calls yesterday to end restrictive pay rates for the age group.

Research shows that some workers aged 16 and 17 were being offered as little as £1.25 an hour. And office juniors in Bolton and Manchester are offered rates as low as £1.95 an hour, according to union research.

USDAW also found cases where teenagers were working 40-hour weeks. The union has consulted with the Low Pay Commission on plans to introduce higher compulsory rates of pay.

Sir Bill Connor, USDAW general secretary, said: "The evidence shows that many 16- and 17-year-olds are exploited by employers looking to bend the law.

"They offer shocking wage rates, often with little of no training, in order to avoid paying minimum rates that they must give to any workers aged 18 and above.

"We must protect this vulnerable age group and we are pleased to hear that the Government has accepted this view."