MOST Bury companies believe the new National Minimum Wage (NMW) is pitched at the right level.
And according to Bolton and Bury Chamber, the legislation appears to have made little difference to most local firms.
These are the main conclusions of a business survey carried out by the Chamber to assess the impact of the NMW.
The report shows that 11 per cent of local Chamber members surveyed have found the legislation burdensome and three per cent want it abolished.
The NMW, indicates the report, has caused overall employment costs to rise in 21 per cent of companies, with the annual additional costs ranging from £1,600 to £50,000.
Some businesses say it has led to pay rises for those earning above the minimum wage - to restore pay dividends. On average, it has increased costs by 2.5 per cent.
Most say the rates should be reviewed annually and index-linked to inflation or average wages growth.
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