LABOUR has demanded that the government act on its “levelling up” pledge by reducing huge income gaps between young workers in London and those in the regions.

The party says that the government should introduce a “regional opportunities guarantee” to ensure that no young person is left behind simply because of where they live.

In 2019, young workers in London were paid on average 39 per cent more a week than those in Yorkshire, according to Labour research. 

Young workers in the East Midlands aged between 22 and 29 were paid on average 29 per cent less per week than those from London. 

Shadow minister for young people Cat Smith said: “Even before the pandemic, stark geographical inequalities in economic prosperity prevented many young people living outside of London and the large cities from accessing equal opportunities.

“Where you are born, and your family background, should not determine your life chances.

“The government must proactively look at the severe economic disparities in this country and prevent the most disadvantaged young people being pushed to the back of the queue when it comes to post-Covid support.”