It will come as no surprise that average wages in Dorset are the second lowest in Britain after Cornwall.

Neither will it represent rocket science for most people that even if there is a general recovery in the British economy as this Government claims, employees are not likely to recognise the difference unless ‘the recovery’ is reflected in their salaries.

The trickle down of wealth has been proven to be over the years since Margaret Thatcher was in power a barely perceptible drip: let alone a spread of prosperity throughout society.

Britain remains one of the most inequitable countries in the developed world.

A labourer is worthy of their hire. It’s high time that local employers stopped exploiting a cheap workforce and signed up their businesses to a Dorset living wage – and that is currently £7.65 in the regions, whose level is set every November according to the cost of living.

It’s preposterous to expect a motivated work force to get out of bed for barely above the minimum wage.

It is also beholden on society to introduce legislation to stop zero contract hours altogether. Additionally, we must do much more to give young people gainful employment.

There is a generation growing up who are clearly not been been given the opportunity to better themselves through hard work.

Additionally, it should be a common courtesy for local employers to phone back young people after interview, instead of leaving them demoralised day after day at the end of their mobiles.

Local young people deserve much better.

Richard Denton-White Fortuneswell Portland