STROUD MP Neil Carmichael has come under fire for refusing to rule out voting for a freeze or a cut in the national minimum wage.


Despite saying a reduction would be a move in the wrong direction, the Tory politician would not commit to opposing one in the future, insisting that he would have to look at any proposals brought forward by the government before deciding how to vote.


Following his comments, Stroud Labour Party sent out a press release saying it was an 'absolute disgrace' that Mr Carmichael would not rule out voting to cut the minimum wage.


The party claimed his position amounted to supporting 'the idea of reducing the wages of the poorest in society'.


Responding to local blogger Steve Hynd who re-tweeted the article in last week's SNJ with the comment, "This is going to win @neil_mp zero friends in #Stroud," Mr Carmichael tweeted, "@stroudnews #Stroud - I have long supported a minimum wage as a floor &, above all, I believe in promoting a high wage economy."


Mr Hynd tweeted back, "So why not pledge to oppose any cuts? Min wage already below living wage! Time to stand up for #Stroud cc (constituents)."
 

Tweeting later on, Mr Carmichael said: "Low Pay Commission has reviewed methodology behind the minimum wage - to be considered - but I am focused on creating a high wage economy."


Labour county councillor Brian Oosthuysen said: "To refuse to oppose any reduction in the national minimum wage is a kick in the wallet for all those low-paid workers who are struggling to keep their families afloat."


He added: "What Stroud residents want is to see their MP fighting for them in Government, not fighting for the Government against them."