<p>Through the procurement tender process, DFID requires suppliers to comply with all relevant UK legislation which includes the requirement to ensure that payments to their employees meet the requirements of the national minimum wage. It is for workers and employers to decide the level of wages above the minimum wage based on individual circumstances. DFID will always award contracts on the basis of the best value for money for the taxpayer—which includes the low paid.</p><p>The UK labour market is one of the most flexible in the world because we allow individuals and businesses to agree patterns of work that suit them. We do not regulate the minimum number of hours people can work and we allow people and companies freedom to agree these terms themselves.</p>