Minimum wage in the European Union

31.3.2015

Question for written answer E-005184/2015
to the Commission
Rule 130
Renata Briano (S&D) and Elena Gentile (S&D)

A minimum wage, set in law at an adequate level, is an effective tool in sustaining the quality of life of employees and their families. From a European perspective, it would primarily make it possible to promote equality and social cohesion more effectively. Secondly, it would  improve the functioning of the EU development model and combat macroeconomic imbalances accentuated by the current crisis, social dumping and downward pressure on salaries, without negatively impacting on the competitiveness of companies and the employment rate.

Several influential voices, including politicians, parties, governments of Member States and economists, most recently President Juncker when addressing Parliament on 15 July, have requested action on this matter at Union level.

Article 153(5) of the TFEU declares that the Union has no jurisdiction on salaries. However, the possibility remains of a strong political initiative on the part of European institutions to promote the adherence of Member States to a common minimum wage system which, based on awareness of good practice, would identify shared methodologies, a minimum level (for example, a percentage of the average salary in each country) and commonly agreed methods of periodic review.

The Commission is asked what action, if any, it intends to take with regard to a minimum wage at Union level?